Iram Iqbal, Nisar Ahmed.
Frequency of red cell alloantibodies and autoantibodies in thalassemia major children.
Biomedica Jan ;30(1):25-8.

Introduction: Beta Thalassemia is an inherited haemoglobin disorder characterized by reduced synthe- sis of beta – globin chains.1 The most severe forms of β-thalassemia major present within the first year of life with severe anaemia and failure to thrive.2 The haemoglobinopathies are major genetic problems in Pakistan. The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of red cell alloantibodies and auto-antibodies in thalassemia major children receiving regular blood transfusions. It was a cross sect- ional survey. It was performed at The Children Hospital and Institute of Child Health, Lahore in Dec. 2009 – May 2010. Subjects and Methods: 130 diagnosed patients of beta thalassaemia major from Children Hospital Lahore were selected. Blood grouping and direct antiglobulin test was performed in these patients. Allo- antibody screening and identification tests were done using the 3 cell panel followed by 11 cell panel of Diamed. Results: Among the 130 patients 8.5% (n = 11) patients were diagnosed to have alloantibodies. Auto- antibodies were detected in 2.3% (n = 3). Conclusion: Presence of red cell antibodies and red cell autoantibodies are frequent findings in trans- fused thalassaemic patients and should not be overlooked in patients with thalassaemia major receiving regular blood transfusion. Regular screening for red cell alloantibodies and autoantibodies would add towards the better management of these patients.

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