Low titer group O whole blood and risk of RhD alloimmunization: Rationale for use in Finland

• DOI: 10.1111/trf.17700
• Publication Date: 2024-01-19T10:09:30Z
• Authors: Sanna Susila; Minna Ilmakunnas; Jouni Lauronen; Pauli Vuorinen; Susanne Ångerman; Susanna Sainio
• Keywords: Adult; Male; Adolescent; Surgery, anesthesiology, intensive care, radiology; Rh Isoimmunization; Hemolysis; ABO Blood-Group System; Erythroblastosis, Fetal; Young Adult; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Risk Factors; Humans; Blood Transfusion; Prehospital; Finland; Rh-Hr Blood-Group System; Hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn; Infant, Newborn; low-titer group O whole blood; Transfusion Reaction; Middle Aged; Female; RhD alloimmunization

Abstract Background Prehospital low‐titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) used for patients with life‐threatening hemorrhage is often RhD positive. The most important complication following alloimmunization hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Preceding clinical use positive LTOWB, we estimated risk HDFN due to LTOWB prehospital transfusion in Finnish population. Study Design Methods We collected data on transfusions Tampere Helsinki University Hospital areas. Using mean reported rates trauma studies (24%) a higher rate representing 13–50 years old (42.7%), extrapolated it Finland. Results that Finland, current would see 1–3 cases severe every 10 years, fetal death caused by less than once 100 years. Discussion serious population similar previous estimates. As Finland routinely screens expectant mothers red cell antibodies as contemporary treatment very effective, support all patient groups.