Prevalence and Factors of Red blood cell alloimmunization from Blood transfusion in Thalassemia patients.

Abstract

Abstract

Rationale and Objectives Red blood cell alloimmunization is an immune response in which the body produces antibodies against foreign red blood cell (RBC) antigens. It is a significant complication in patients with thalassemia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of alloantibodies resulting from red blood cell alloimmunization and to identify factors associated with its occurrence in thalassemia patients.Methods This was a retrospective descriptive study conducted in thalassemia patients who received blood transfusions between October 1, 2021, and October 31, 2024, over a period of three years. A total of 385 patients were included in the study.Results The study found that 19.2% of patients developed red blood cell alloimmunization. Anti-E was the most commonly detected alloantibody (32.4%), followed by Anti-Mia (18.9%). Two factors were significantly associated with the development of alloimmunization: blood group and the number of transfused units. Patients with blood group AB had a higher incidence of alloimmunization compared to those with blood groups A, B, and O. Additionally, patients who received more than 10 units of blood had a higher rate of alloimmunization compared to those who received 10 units or fewer.Conclusion Anti-E was the most frequently identified alloantibody in red blood cell alloimmunization. Blood group and the number of transfused blood units were found to be associated factors.

Keywords: red blood cell alloimmunization, thalassemia, blood transfusion