Maternal-neonatal transfusion compatibility irrespective of ABO mismatch – a prospective observational study

Abstract

Objective: To determine transfusion compatibility of maternal RBCs for her neonate up to 4 weeks of age, irrespective of maternal-neonatal ABO mismatch.

Methods: This was a prospective observational study involving eligible mothers with their neonates delivered in participating site from 1 July 2012 till 31 December 2012. Mother’s blood was collected before child birth. Neonatal blood sample was collected from placental end, shortly after birth. Blood Groups of mother–baby pair were individually tested for ABO and Rh-D groups. Pairs with negative Rh-D antigen/s or with same ABO blood groups were excluded. Thus, 28 pairs with both maternal and neonatal samples positive for Rh-D antigen and with different maternal neonatal ABO blood groups were included in the study. Blood samples were collected at birth and at 4 weeks. Cross matching was done at birth and at 4 weeks for each pair with standard blood bank protocols.

Results: All 28 pairs showed positive compatibility with standard blood bank cross-matching protocols at birth and at 4 weeks.

Conclusions: Maternal blood irrespective of ABO compatibility might be a viable and potentially acceptable option for her new born baby in neonatal period. This may be especially important in developing world with limited blood bank resources.

• Leakage of maternal cells in fetal circulation
• mother as blood donor
• neonatal transfusion
• tolerance to maternal antigens
• transfusion compatibility

Acknowledgements

We thank Mrs. Samruddhi SG, Administrative Officer of Rajhans Hospital, for her technical support.