Molecular characterization of a rare Rh phenotype Dc-from the Indian subcontinent.

Unusual Rh phenotypes such as Rhnull, D-- and Dc- etc. are rarely encountered in routine blood bank testing. The Rhnull phenotype is characterized by the absence of all Rh antigens, D-- phenotype does not express any RhCcEe antigens whereas Dc- phenotype individual lacks expression of antithetical E /e antigens. These individuals may produce multiple Rh antibodies against missing antigens. An old woman (B RhD positive) from Bangladesh with end-stage renal disease developed severe anaemia. Cross-matching with ABO and RhD compatible blood units showed +3 agglutination reaction. Detailed immunohaematological investigations showed a lack of C, E and e antigens, thus identifying the rare Rh variant as Dc-. Antibodies against C and e antigens were also detected in the patient's serum. PCR-SSP confirmed the absence of the molecular region defining the C, E and e antigens. Copy number analysis by QMPSF revealed the homozygous state of (RHCE-D(4-9)-CE) allele at the RHCE gene locus. This is the first report of the rare Dc- variant individual from the Indian subcontinent.

Culture clash of female Somali adolescents and sexual and reproductive health services in Oslo, Norway.

OBJECTIVE: Culture influences an individual's perception of health needs. The influence of culture also applies to Somali individuals' perception of their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and uptake of related services. An understanding of female Somali adolescents' SRH needs is vital to achieve inclusive health coverage. No research has, however, been conducted to explore the SRH needs of this population group in Oslo; hence, the aim of this qualitative study was to minimise the knowledge gap. METHODS: Fourteen young women aged 16-20 years were recruited using the snowball technique with purposive sampling. In-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide were used to collect data, and thematic analysis was applied. RESULTS: Participants perceived SRH as a very private matter and open discussion of SRH was extremely limited owing to certain Somali cultural beliefs and values. As the participants intend to practise chastity before marriage, they believed that existing SRH services were largely irrelevant and inappropriate. Where they felt the need to access SRH services, participants wished to do so in a way they considered culturally appropriate. CONCLUSION: Somali culture markedly influences individuals' perceptions of SRH services. It is recommended to modify existing SRH services by increasing confidentiality and anonymity in order to take into account the cultural requirements of female Somali adolescents.