Significance of red cell alloantibodies other than anti-D during pregnancy and their effect on the newborn: A case series

Abstract

Contrary to well-established guidelines in developed countries, awareness regarding red cell alloantibodies in antenatal period are lacking in India. Investigating for indirect antiglobulin test (IAT) is mostly limited to the Rh D negative antenatal cases. This case series revisits this vital aspect of maternal and fetal safety. Instances of alloantibody other than anti-D are reported.Study was done in Transfusion Medicine department of a tertiary care hospital in North India during 2019-2020. IAT was performed not during the 1st or 2nd trimesters of pregnancy but as a routine compatibility test during delivery. Patients with positive IAT were further evaluated for the detection of alloantibody by using identification panel red cells. Result: Eight antenatal cases with irregular antibodies other than anti-D during 2019-2020 are described. Antibodies detected per patient were single (three cases of anti-E, one of anti-Fya, one of anti-M) or multiple (two cases of anti-E plus anti-c, one of anti-E plus anti-K). Direct antiglobulin test of four babies born to these mothers was found to be positive, one of whom was still born and rest recovered with medical management. Two other babies had DAT negative and two mothers presented late after still birth. Alloantibody titer indicated in patient with anti-E during mid-pregnancy had titer was undetectable by standard tube technique.Non anti-D alloantibodies can potentially affect fetus, asserting equal attention as anti-D. IAT should not be missed in pregnancy as it is common to investigations for compatibility as well as for fetal wellbeing assessment.