[Molecular biology analysis of 2 rare RhD variant individuals with RHD*DEL37].

The Rh blood grouping system is a critical standardized test in transfusion medicine, especially for the cases related to haemolytic transfusion reactions and neonatal haemolytic disease caused by clinical RhD blood group incompatibility. In the present case report, we presented two cases with the uncommon RHD gene variation RHD*DEL37. The blood samples of the two subjects were mistakenly identified as RhD-negative through conventional serological testing. Firstly, both blood samples were tested negative for the RhD antigen using traditional tube test and gel microcolumn methods. The phenotyping of RhCE were identified as ccEe and ccee for each sample, respectively. Secondly, genetic analysis was performed using polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific prime (PCR-SSP) which revealed that neither sample belonging to the several common RHD gene variants which was found in Asia. Moreover, they turned out to be positive for the RHD haplotype, which indicated that exons 1-10 on one of the RHD alleles were entirely absent. In addition, a T>C mutation was observed at bases 1154-31 in intron 8 of the other allele, which was located at the intron 8 breakpoint. This result was obtained after further Sanger sequencing of exons 1-10 of the RHD gene. The mutant allele was designated as RHD*DEL37 by the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) and was identified as D-elute(Del) by phenotype ana-lysis. Both samples were genotyped as RHD*DEL37 and showed positive results. In summary, the true genotype of the two blood samples, of which the screening results only using serological testing method was negative, were RHD*DEL37 /RHD-(RHD*01N.01). Notably, this kind of genotype was reported for the first time in Chinese population. Moreover, the two individuals did not have ties of consanguinity, indicating that some of the Chinese individuals could be carriers of the genetic mutation. Therefore, it might be necessary to further confirm the frequency of this mutation in the Chinese population and the possibility of homozygosity for this mutation. This report identifies infrequent RHD gene mutation samples by coupling molecular biology and serological methods to prevent misclassification of blood groups. Combining serological and molecular biology test results to determine blood group is critical in protecting patients during clinical transfusion procedures.

Prediction of Covid-19 infection severity using ABO blood group types and Rh factor.

Background & Objective: Biological markers for the prediction of acquiring Covid-19 risk are deficient and there is a dire need of immediate research data. The objective of the study was to predict the link of ABO blood group types along with Rh factor distribution with the severity of Covid-19. Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional survey conducted in medicine department of Pakistan Ordnance Factory Hospital, Wah Cantt Pakistan, from August 2020 to December 2020 after approval of IRB. Participants tested positive for presence of Covid-19 infection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were included in the study. Covid-19 infection severity was measured through mild, moderate and severe disease categories and analyzed. ABO blood group and Rh subgroups data for all the Covid-19 infected patients were obtained from the laboratory section of the hospital and analyzed. Data was entered in SPSS v 26 and analyzed. Cox regression model was used to find out the severity of Covid-19. Results: Total 248 patients were included; 75% patients were male and 25% were females. The mean age of the patients was 52.77±15.58 years. A very significant association was found between ABO blood group types, Rh factor antigen and severity of Covid-19 (p=0.001). When stratified ABO, Rh antigen blood group with health status of all patients there was a very significant association between them (p=0.013). An insignificant association between male and female odds ratio of ABO blood group types but blood group B, Rh positive antigen was more susceptible in Covid-19 positive patients. Conclusion: There is a link between ABO blood group types along with Rh factor antigen (B+ and O+) with the severity of Covid-19 positive patients. ABO blood group types and Rh factor can be used as a potential marker/tool to predict the susceptibility of acquiring Covid-19 infection as well as for severity of the infection.

Developing a databank for multiple transfusion patients: Rh antigen and phenotype distribution among 3000 regular blood donors in Iran.

BACKGROUND: Rhesus (Rh) blood group system is clinically the most significant protein-based grouping system. The Rh system is of vital importance in blood transfusion, and incompatibility between the donor and recipient leads to alloimmunization. Alloimmunization is commonly seen in multiple-transfusion recipients (e.g. thalassemia patients). There are a few studies about the prevalence of Rh antigens, except for D, in Iran; and regarding the high prevalence of thalassemia in the country, in this study we have determined antigens and phenotypes of the Rh among population of regular blood donors with the aim of developing a detailed Rh databank. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study randomly enrolled 3000 regular blood donors from three provinces of Sistan-Balouchestan, Khuzestan and Gilan in Iran, from September 2018 to May 2019. A fully automated system, based on hemagglutination, was used to Rh typing of blood samples. RESULTS: The prevalence of Rh antigens were as follows: D: 88.9 %; E: 30.9 %; C: 74.1 %; e: 96.2 %; and c: 72.8 %. The most common antigen and phenotype were "e" and R1r (DCcee), respectively. CONCLUSION: Due to the high rate of alloimmunization incidence against Rh blood group antigens among multiple transfusion recipients, development of regular blood donor's Rh databank can facilitate extensive matching for the Rh antigens and it likely reduces the risk of alloimmunization.

Noninvasive Fetal RhD Blood Group Genotyping: A Systematic Review of Economic Evaluations.

OBJECTIVE: Noninvasive fetal rhesus D (RhD) blood group genotyping may prevent unnecessary use of anti-D immunoglobulin (RhIG) in non-alloimmunized RhD-negative pregnancies and can guide management of alloimmunized pregnancies. We conducted a systematic review of the economic literature to determine the cost-effectiveness of this intervention over usual care. DATA SOURCES: Systematic literature searches of bibliographic databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane) until February 26, 2019, and auto-alerts until October 30, 2020, and of grey literature sources were performed to retrieve all English-language studies. STUDY SELECTION: We included studies done in serologically confirmed non-alloimmunized or alloimmunized RhD-negative pregnancies, comparing costs and effectiveness of the intervention versus usual care. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two reviewers extracted data from the eligible studies and assessed their methodological quality (risk of bias) using the Quality of Health Economic Studies (QHES) and Drummond tools. We narratively synthesized findings. Our review included 8 economic studies that evaluated non-invasive fetal RhD genotyping followed by targeted RhIG prophylaxis in non-alloimmunized pregnancies. Five studies further considered a subsequent alloimmunized pregnancy. The cost-effectiveness of the intervention versus usual care (e.g., universal RhIG or prophylaxis conditional on results of paternal testing) for non-alloiummunized pregnancies was inconsistent. Two studies indicated greater benefits and lower costs for the intervention, and another 2 suggested a trade-off. In 4 studies, the intervention was less effective and costlier than alternatives. Three studies were determined to be of high quality by both tools. Two of these studies favoured the intervention, and one assessed benefits in quality-adjusted life-years. No study clearly examined the cost-effectiveness of repetitive use of fetal genotyping in multiple non-alloimmunized or alloimmunized pregnancies. The cost of genotyping was the most influential parameter. CONCLUSION: The cost-effectiveness of noninvasive fetal RhD genotyping for non-alloimmunized pregnancies varies between studies. Potential savings from targeted management of alloimmunized pregnancies requires further research.

Targeted antenatal anti-D prophylaxis for RhD-negative pregnant women: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: All non-sensitized Rhesus D (RhD)-negative pregnant women in Germany receive antenatal anti-D prophylaxis without knowledge of fetal RhD status. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) of cell-free fetal DNA in maternal plasma could avoid unnecessary anti-D administration. In this paper, we systematically reviewed the evidence on the benefit of NIPT for fetal RhD status in RhD-negative pregnant women. METHODS: We systematically searched several bibliographic databases, trial registries, and other sources (up to October 2019) for controlled intervention studies investigating NIPT for fetal RhD versus conventional anti-D prophylaxis. The focus was on the impact on fetal and maternal morbidity. We primarily considered direct evidence (from randomized controlled trials) or if unavailable, linked evidence (from diagnostic accuracy studies and from controlled intervention studies investigating the administration or withholding of anti-D prophylaxis). The results of diagnostic accuracy studies were pooled in bivariate meta-analyses. RESULTS: Neither direct evidence nor sufficient data for linked evidence were identified. Meta-analysis of data from about 60,000 participants showed high sensitivity (99.9%; 95% CI [99.5%; 100%] and specificity (99.2%; 95% CI [98.5%; 99.5%]). CONCLUSIONS: NIPT for fetal RhD status is equivalent to conventional serologic testing using the newborn's blood. Studies investigating patient-relevant outcomes are still lacking.

Association between HLA-DRB1*01 and HLA-DRB1*15 with alloimmunisation in transfusion-dependent patients with thalassaemia.

BACKGROUND: Alloantibody production is one of the most challenging complications in transfusion-dependent thalassaemia patients. Haemolytic anaemia, an increase in blood consumption, difficulty in haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and reduced quality of life are consequences of alloimmunisation. The most predisposed antigens (Ags) for alloantibody development are Rh and Kell blood group Ags. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study is to evaluate any correlation between HLA-DRB1 alleles and Rh and Kell alloantibodies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-two non-responders (control) and 54 responders (case) were enrolled in this study. Alloantibody detection was performed using the tube method. Genotyping of HLA-DRB1*01 and HLA-DRB1*15 was conducted by single-specific primer-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: In the responder group, 77.8% were hyper-responders (more than one alloantibody), and only 22.2% were mono-responders. Most detected alloantibodies were Anti-K (94.4%), followed by Anti-E (64.8%), Anti-C (29.6%) and Anti-D (25.9%). There was a significant difference in HLA-DRB1*15 between responder and non-responder groups, 73.7% vs 26.3%, respectively. (P = .029, OR = 3.290; 95%CI). Our results showed that HLA-DRB1*15 was more frequent in hyper-responders than mono-responders (92.9% vs 7.1%) (P = .007). The greatest HLA-DRB1*15 was seen in Anti-K (P = .014, odds ratio [OR = 3.784]; 95% confidence interval [CI]) and Anti-E (P = .011, OR = 3.609; 95%CI) alloantibodies. There is no association between HLA-DRB1*01 and alloimmunisation. CONCLUSION: Our findings showed that there is a significant correlation between HLA-DRB1*15 and Anti-K and Anti-E alloantibodies. These findings can be useful in detecting susceptible thalassaemic patients and improving transfusion management.

Rare and transient anti-D antibody response in D(-) liver transplant recipients transfused with D(+) red blood cells.

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 20 D(-) liver transplant (LT) recipients transfused with D(+) RBCs perioperatively and screened for RBC antibodies between 2 and 6 months later. None developed anti-D detectable by the indirect antiglobulin test. Two patients produced weak anti-D that reacted only with papain-treated RBCs at 10 and 11 days without any sign of immune haemolysis. Antibodies became quickly undetectable. These data suggest an unusual pattern of alloimmunization in LT recipients with rapid, weak and transient antibody response and support the safety of transfusing D(+) RBCs in most of D(-) patients during LT surgery.

The Rhesus Site.

The Rhesus Site is a resource for information of the 'Rhesus' blood group. It is intended for specialists and non-specialists. The website details research in the field relevant for transfusion medicine, immunohematology, and molecular research. Link areas guide to important publications and to methodological resources for Rhesus. Many data originally presented at The Rhesus Site have been formally published later. The 'RhesusBase' section represents the largest database for RHD alleles; the 'RhesusSurveillance' section details the results of the largest prospective observational study on anti-D immunization events in D-positive patients. Visitors to the website are encouraged to explore the intricacies of the most complex blood group gene locus.

Evaluation of the frequency of ABO and Rh-Hr blood-group systems in different acquired cataracts type.

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the relationship between acquired cataract's different types and the ABO and Rh blood classes. METHODS: Overall, 520 patients, by randomized sampling method, participated in this retrospective cross-sectional study. After reviewing the patient's medical records and laboratory results, the patient's demographics, ABO group, Rh, and cataract type were documented. RESULTS: A total of 520 patients were included in the research, with a mean age of 67.57 ± 11.85. Most of them were female (n = 286, 55%). Mix (n = 230, 44%) and nuclear sclerotic (NS) (n = 167, 32%) cataracts were the most common types. The posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC) prevalence in females was significantly higher than in males (16.1% vs.7.3% p = 0.002). Also, men had more NS cataracts than females (89, 38% vs. 78, 27.3%) (p = 0.009). Patients with PSC were significantly younger than others (all p-values < 0.001). Our results showed that cataract types are independent of blood group types and Rh (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Although our findings showed that cataract types are independent of blood group types and Rh, they can be compared with future studies on the association of other Blood-Group Systems in developing acquired cataracts.

Genotype analysis to clarify RhD variants in discrepant samples of Chilean population.

Introduction: The D antigen variants are classified as weak, partial, and extremely weak (DEL) and can be differentiated using molecular tests. In Chile, the laboratories of local blood centers do not identify variants of the D antigen, referring them for study to the Reference Laboratory of the Public Health Institute of Chile. So, our aim was to talk about the results of the molecular analysis of variants of the D antigen in samples that had different results in the serological classification. Methods: In the D antigen classification of the Rh system, 479 samples with serological discrepant results were sent for molecular analysis. The Rh phenotype was performed with monoclonal anti-C, anti-c, anti-E, and anti-e antisera by direct agglutination. To find the D antigen, researchers used direct agglutination with monoclonal antisera and indirect antiglobulin testing with the column (gel) agglutination method. Molecular analysis was performed with a polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers (SSP-PCR) and sequencing. Results and discussion: The presence of D antigen variants was confirmed in 332 samples (69.3%), with an initial discrepancy in serological classification. In this group of discrepant samples, the frequency of weak RhD variants was 66% (219/332), that of extremely weak RhD was 28% (93/332), and that of partial RhD was 6% (20/332). The weak variants type 2 (27.4%), type 3 (8.4%), type 48 (8.4%), and type 1 (8.1%) were the next most prevalent variants after RHD*DEL43 (28%). The ccEe (R2r) phenotype was the most frequently detected (38.4%) and is present in 87% of the RHD*DEL43 samples. The E antigen is associated with the presence of this variant. Our analyses give the first description of D antigen variants in Chile. The most common variants are DEL type (RHD*DEL43) and weak (weak type 2), which are linked to the ccDEe (R2r) phenotype. These findings allow us to characterize the variants of the D antigen in Chile and, according to the obtained data, to design strategies for the management of donors, patients, and pregnant women.

A Study of Association of ABO and Rh Blood Group with Colorectal Cancer in Khuzestan Province, Iran.

Background : Colorectal cancer, a solid tumor with a high prevalence, contributes significantly to annual mortality rates. Various factors, including blood groups, may influence cancer risk. Multiple studies have suggested a potential connection between ABO and Rh blood groups and colorectal cancer risk. This study aims to investigate the role of ABO and Rh blood groups as risk factors in colorectal cancer patients. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study involving 71 colorectal cancer patients diagnosed between 2018 and 2020 in Khuzestan province, Iran, with known ABO blood types. Large-scale data from 29,922 blood donors in Khuzestan served as the healthy population control. The study analyzed the distribution of ABO blood groups among the blood donors. Results : Our findings revealed that the distribution of blood groups among colorectal cancer patients was as follows: O (31.0%), A (29.6%), B (29.6%), and AB (9.8%). However, our analysis did not establish a significant association between colorectal cancer risk and ABO antigens (P-value = 0.636) or Rh blood group (P = 0.198). Additionally, no significant differences in ABO blood types were observed concerning gender (P = 0.802), cancer type (P = 0.338), or tumor type (P = 0.207) among colorectal cancer patients. Conclusion : This study does not support a significant correlation between ABO and Rh blood groups and the risk of colorectal cancer, nor does it find associations with cancer type or tumor type.

The Relationship Between Periodontal Disease and ABO Blood Groups: A Cross-Sectional Study.

PURPOSE: The objective of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the relationship between ABO blood groups and periodontal diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four hundred sixteen subjects (223 females, 193 males) were recruited according to the eligibility criteria. Periodontal examination was performed, including full-mouth plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), clinical attachment level (CAL), and interproximal bone loss (IBL). ABO blood group patterns were determined based on self-reports, confirmed by medical records. The chi-squared test was done to evaluate the data (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Out of the 416 subjects, 52.2% were blood group O, whereas 27.8% were blood group A. 46.8% of patients with blood group O had gingivitis and 49.6% had periodontitis. 31.2% of patients with blood group A had gingivitis,while 29.5% had periodontitis. The blood group with the lowest percentage among patients with gingivitis was AB, with a rate of 6.2%; in this blood group, 8.1% had periodontitis. CONCLUSIONS: There is no association between periodontal diseases and ABO blood group types.

Rhesus D factor (RhD) negative women's experiences with pregnancy: An interpretive description.

BACKGROUND: The development of rh immune globulin (RhIG) for the prevention of Rhesus D (RhD) alloimmunization has significantly decreased the incidence of RhD alloimmunization. Despite long-standing prevention, the experiences of RhD negative women with pregnancy is absent in the literature. AIM: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of RhD negative women with pregnancy. METHODS: Utilizing an Interpretive Description approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with RhD negative women about their pregnancies. This study took place within the geographic context of northern British Columbia (BC). The analysis involved a two-cycle approach to identify themes within the data. FINDINGS: Sixteen RhD negative women that live in northern BC participated in this study. The analysis identified that RhD negative women are uninformed and want to be involved in the decision-making process regarding the prevention of RhD alloimmunization. The themes that emerged from the interview data were communication, information-seeking behaviour, out of sight out of mind, choice and trust, and patient advocacy. DISCUSSION: The participants in this study described lacking information regarding the prevention of RhD alloimmunization. They sought information to overcome the gaps in knowledge and a desire to be involved in the decision-making process. CONCLUSION: RhD negative women want information and to be involved in the decision-making process in the prevention of RhD alloimmunization. Working with RhD negative women to develop decision-aids and/or other educational tools to aid in the decision-making process are warranted.

Male individuals with Robin Sequence: emerging significant association with ABO and RhD blood group phenotypes.

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the association of Robin Sequence with ABO and RhD blood group phenotypes. METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed of a cohort of Robin Sequence patients of the Hospital de Reabilitação de Anomalias Craniofaciais - Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Brazil. The study group was composed of 339 individuals of both genders with Robin Sequence referred for specific treatment. A control group was composed of 1780 individuals without syndromes. The groups were compared using the Pearson' chi-square test (χ 2) with statistical significance being defined for an alpha error of 5% (p-value < 0.05). RESULTS: A comparison of gender found a significant difference for the AB phenotype between groups (p-value = 0.007). Comparing blood type by gender there was no significant difference within the same group (p-value = 0.117 and 0.388 respectively, for Robin Sequence and the control group). When comparing the AB blood type between groups, there was no difference for females (p-value = 0.577), but there was a significant difference for males (p-value = 0.0029). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that the population with Robin Sequence had different patterns related to gender concerning the phenotypic distribution of ABO and RhD blood group phenotypes. Robin Sequence is more common among females. The AB phenotype was significantly higher in males with Robin Sequence than in males of the Control Group. The prevalence of the RhD-negative phenotype is higher in individuals with Robin Sequence. This result suggests a possible association of ABO and RhD phenotypes with Robin Sequence that should be better investigated by molecular studies, as it deserves greater attention.

Application of Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification Assay for Genotyping Major Blood Group Systems Including DEL Variants in the D-Negative Korean Population.

BACKGROUND: The DEL blood type, a very weak D variant, is a major concern in the field of transfusion medicine because of its potential to cause anti-D alloimmunization. We investigated the molecular basis of serologically D-negative phenotypes, including the DEL type, and the distribution of other blood group systems in the Korean population using the recently developed multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assay. METHODS: Blood group genotyping using the MLPA assay and RhCE phenotyping were performed on randomly selected 95 D-negative red blood cell products. The MLPA results were verified by multiplex PCR for the RHD promoter, exons 4, 7, and 10 and by direct sequencing of RHD exon 9. RESULTS: Out of 95 cases, total deletion of the RHD was observed in 74 cases (77.9%) and four cases (4.2%) had an RHD-CE-D hybrid allele. The other 17 cases (17.9%) had an RHD(1227G>A) allele, which was further confirmed by sequencing analysis. The RhCE phenotypes of RHD(1227G>A) alleles were composed of 14 Cce and 3 CcEe, and all 60 cases of the ce phenotype were revealed to have a total deletion of the RHD. Genotyping results and allele distribution of the other 17 blood group systems were consistent with previous reports on the East Asian population. CONCLUSIONS: MLPA assay correctly determined RHD genotype, including RHD-CE-D hybrid alleles or RHD(1227G>A) allele, and other clinically relevant blood group genotypes in D-negative Koreans. The use of MLPA assay on serologically D-negative individuals may help improve transfusion safety by preventing anti-D alloimmunization.

Descripción de una población de embarazadas con incompatibilidad Rh (D) / Description of a population of pregnant women with Rh (D) incompatibility

Resumen OBJETIVO: Describir los desenlaces maternos y perinatales en embarazadas con incompatibilidad Rh D. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva efectuado en la Unidad Materno Infantil de Medellín, Colombia, en pacientes embarazadas atendidas entre 2013 y 2018 con incompatibilidad Rh. Se realizó un muestreo no probabilístico de casos consecutivos y un análisis univariado. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 250 pacientes con mediana de edad de 26 años y tipo de sangre O-, que fue el más prevalente (55.2%). El 49.2% de las pacientes había tenido entre 2 y 3 embarazos previos. El 88% de las pacientes no había tenido ningún evento sensibilizante durante el embarazo. El 65.2% tuvo un reporte negativo del primer Coombs y la media de semanas de embarazo al primer Coombs fue de 28. El 48% de las pacientes recibió la inmunoglobulina G anti-D a una mediana de 28 semanas de gestación. CONCLUSIÓN: El estudio confirma datos clínicos y sociodemográficos y sugiere que se requiere fortalecer la oportunidad en la captación temprana de las pacientes para el seguimiento con el Coombs y para la indicación de la profilaxis.

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine the maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with Rh D incompatibility. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A Retrospective cohort study carried out in the Maternal and Child Unit of Medellín, Colombia, in pregnant patients attended between 2013 and 2018. RESULTS: 250 patients were included, in which the median age was 26 years. The O- blood type was the most prevalent in pregnant women with 55.2% and 49.2% of the patients had had between 2 and 3 previous pregnancies, in addition, 88% of the patients had not presented any sensitizing event during her pregnancy. 65.2% had a negative first Coombs result and the mean gestational age of the first Coombs was 28 weeks. 48% of patients received immunoglobulin G anti D at a median gestational age of 28 weeks. CONCLUSION: The present study confirms the clinical and sociodemographic data, however it suggests that it may be necessary to strengthen the opportunity in the early recruitment of patients for follow-up with Coombs and for the indication of prophylaxis.

Association of ABO blood group and age with COVID-19 positive test

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to evaluate the relation between the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) disease (COVID-19) and blood groups and the Rh factor. METHOD: A total of 313 patients hospitalized in the Internal Medicine clinic, at the intensive care unit (ICU) were included in the study. The cases were divided into two groups: those who were COVID-19 positive and those negative, detected with real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction testing. The demographic, clinical, ABO blood groups, and Rh factor data of the cases were obtained from the hospital records retrospectively. RESULTS: The mean age of COVID-19 positive (+) cases was 57.74±16 years and of COVID-19 negative (-) cases, 66.41±15 years. The difference was significant (p<0.001); there was no difference between the two groups in terms of sex (p=0.634). When age was categorically separated in COVID-19 (+) cases, χ2 was extremely significant. Among the ABO blood groups of COVID-19 (+) and (-) cases, χ2 was 4.975 (p=0.174). In the logistic regression, it was 4.1 (p=0.011) in the O blood group. COVID-19 positive test was determined as 13, 4, and 4 times higher in the 31-40, 41-50, and 51-60 age groups, respectively (p=0.001, p=0.010, p=0.003). CONCLUSION: The incidence of COVID-19 has increased in the younger population and in the O blood group. Our findings support that, in this population, the ABO blood groups can contribute to the early detection of COVID-19.

The effect of abo and rh blood group antigens on admission to intensive care unit and mortality in patients with COVID-19 infection

SUMMARY AIM The aim of this study is to analyze the prognostic significance of ABO and Rh blood group antigens along with various parameters in patients followed-up with the diagnosis of COVID-19. METHODS We evaluated 397 patients who were follow-up and treated due to COVID-19 infections. The ages, genders, chronic diseases, ABO and Rh blood group antigens, admission rates to Intensive Care Units (ICU), and mortality rates of the patients were analyzed. FINDINGS The mean age of the 397 patients with COVID-19 was 47±17 years. In the blood group analysis of the patients, A Rh-positive (A +) was the most frequently seen blood type (176 patients, 44.3%) followed by O Rh-positive (0 +) (109 patients, 27,5%); 38 patients were Rh negative (Rh -) (9,6%). 53 of the patients (13,4%) were followed in ICU and 29 patients died (7,3%). Neither mortality nor admission to ICU was seen for Rh - group. The comparison of Rh groups concerning the need for ICU admission revealed a significantly high rate of ICU admission in the Rh + group (p=0,011), while no significant relationship was found between mortality and Rh antigen (p=0,069). CONCLUSION The most frequently seen blood type among COVID-19 patients was A +. The Rh + blood group was found in all cases who were admitted to ICU and had a death outcome. The Rh + blood group was found in a significantly high number of patients who were admitted to ICU, while no significant relationship was found between mortality and Rh blood group.

RESUMO OBJETIVO O objetivo deste estudo é analisar o significado prognóstico dos antígenos do grupo sanguíneo ABO e Rh, juntamente com vários parâmetros em pacientes acompanhados com o diagnóstico de COVID-19. MÉTODOS Foram avaliados 397 pacientes que foram acompanhados e tratados devido à infecção por COVID-19. Foram analisadas as idades, gêneros, doenças crônicas, antígenos do grupo sanguíneo ABO e Rh, taxas de internação em unidades de terapia intensiva (UTI) e taxas de mortalidade dos pacientes. A idade média de 397 pacientes com COVID foi de 47 ± 17 anos. Na análise do grupo sanguíneo dos pacientes, A Rh positivo (A +) foi o tipo sanguíneo mais frequentemente observado (176 dos pacientes, 44,3%), seguido pelo O Rh positivo (0 +) (109 dos pacientes, 27,5%) 38 dos pacientes eram Rh negativos (Rh -) (9,6%). 53 dos pacientes (13,4%) foram acompanhados em UTI e 29 faleceram (7,3%). Não houve mortalidade nem admissão na UTI para o grupo Rh. A comparação dos grupos Rh quanto à necessidade de admissão na UTI revelou uma taxa significativamente alta de admissão na UTI no grupo Rh + (p = 0,011), enquanto não foi encontrada relação significativa entre mortalidade e antígeno Rh (p = 0,069). CONCLUSÃO O tipo sanguíneo mais frequentemente observado foi o A + entre os pacientes com COVID-19. O grupo sanguíneo Rh + foi encontrado em todos os casos admitidos na UTI e com evolução mortal. O grupo sanguíneo Rh + foi encontrado em um número significativamente alto de pacientes internados na UTI, enquanto nenhuma relação significativa foi encontrada entre a mortalidade e o grupo sanguíneo Rh.

Características de los donantes voluntarios de sangre en universidades de Neiva, Huila / Characteristics of voluntary blood donors at universities in Neiva, Huila / Características de doadores de sangue voluntários em universidades de Neiva, Huila

Objetivo: Describir las características, frecuencia y distribución de los donantes voluntarios de sangre en las Universidades de Neiva Huila, durante el período 2013-2017. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo de corte transversal para los periodos de enero 2013 a diciembre 2017, basado en fuentes secundarias suministradas por la Red Nacional de Bancos de Sangre a través del Banco de Sangre de Neiva. Se realizó un muestreo de donantes por conveniencia que cumplieran con criterios de inclusión y exclusión definidos para el estudio. Las variables que se analizaron fueron grupos de edad, género, grupo sanguíneo ABO y factor Rh. Resultados: Durante el periodo de estudio se realizaron 6.547 donaciones de sangre voluntarias, de las cuales el 85,5% (I.C 95%: 84,6-86,3) fueron ocasionales y el 14,5% (I.C 95%: 13,6-15,6) habituales; el género masculino generó la mayor parte de las donaciones voluntarias habituales en el 68% (I.C 95%: 64,9-70,9), se identificó que el grupo poblacional en edades de 19-29 años, para ambos géneros, aporto el 87,5% (I.C 95%: 85,2-89,4); el grupo sanguíneo que prevaleció en los donantes voluntarios fue el grupo O en el 61,6% (I.C 95%: 57,2-63,4) y el factor Rh positivo en el 98,5% de la población donante. Conclusión: Se presentó una disminución cercana al 90% en los donantes habituales posterior a tercera década de la vida, los hombres tuvieron una mayor participación en las jornadas de promoción y captación de sangre durante el periodo de estudio, dado a que los hombres pueden realizar un mayor número de donaciones en el año en comparación con las mujeres.

Objetivo: Descrever as características, frequência e distribuição de doadores voluntários de sangue nas Universidades de Neiva Huila, durante o período de 2013 a 2017. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo descritivo transversal observacional entre os períodos de janeiro de 2013 a dezembro de 2017 com base em fontes secundárias fornecidas pela Rede Nacional de Bancos de Sangue através do Banco de Sangue do Neiva; Foi realizada uma amostragem de doadores por conveniência, atendendo aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão definidos para o estudo. As variáveis analisadas foram: faixa etária, gênero, grupo sanguíneo ABO e fator Rh. Resultados: Durante o período de estudo, foram feitas 6.547 doações voluntárias de sangue, das quais 85,5% (95%: 84,6-86,3) foram feitas com base nos seguintes 14,5% (I.C 95%: 13,6-15,6) por regular. O gênero masculino gerou a maior parte das doações voluntárias habituais em 68% (I.C 95%: 64,9-70,9), o grupo populacional de 19 a 29 anos foi identificado para ambos os sexos, fornecendo 87,5% (I.C 95%: 85,2-89,4); o grupo sanguíneo que mais prevaleceu nos doadores voluntários foi o grupo O em 61,6% (I.C 95%: 57,2-63,4) e o fator Rh positivo em 98,5% da população doadora. Conclusão: Houve uma redução de quase 90% nos doadores regulares após a terceira década de vida, Os homens tiveram maior participação nos dias de promoção e coleta de sangue durante o período de estudo, uma vez que os homens podem fazer um maior número de doações no ano em comparação com as mulheres.

Objective: To describe the characteristics of voluntary blood donors in the Universities of Neiva Huila, during the period 2013-2017. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional descriptive observational study, for the periods from January 2013 to December 2017, based on secondary sources provided by the National Network of Blood Banks. A convenience sampling was performed of the donors registered in the database, who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria defined for the study. The variables analyzed were age groups, gender, ABO blood group and Rh factor. Results: During the study period, 6,547 voluntary blood donations were made, of which 85.5% (95% CI: 84.6-86.3) were occasional and 14.5% (95% CI: 13. 6-15.6) usual. The male gender generated most of the usual voluntary donations in 68% (95% CI: 64.9-70.9), it was identified that the population group aged 19-29 years for both genders contributed 87, 5% (95% CI: 85.2-89.4); the most prevalent blood group in volunteer donors was the blood group O Rh factor Positive in 61.6% (95% CI: 57.2-63.4) and the Rh factor positive in 98.5% of the patients. donor population. Conclusion: There was a decrease close to 90% in habitual donors after the third decade of life. Men had a greater participation in the days of promotion and collection of blood during the study period, given that men can make a greater number of donations in the year compared to women.

Anti- c(w): in a young female patient. A case report with review of literature and frequency of low incidence c(w) (rh8) antigen in north India.

If the patient has antibody to low incidence antigen providing compatible blood for transfusion is not a problem. It is however necessary to identify such antibodies to assess their potential to cause hemolytic transfusion reaction and hemolytic disease of newborn. We identified anti C(w) in patient's serum while investigating the cause of incompatible cross match in a female thalassemia patient. Anti C(w) is an antibody against C(w) (Rh8) antigen, which is a low incidence antigen of Rh system. This case also prompted us to study frequency of C(w) antigen in our donor population as the frequency of C(w) antigens in our population is not reported. Frequency of C(w) antigens in north Indian donors was found to be 1.2 %.