Partial matching of blood group antigens to reduce alloimmunization in Western India

Red blood cell alloimmunization occurs due to the genetic disparity of red cell antigens between donor and recipient. In the present study, we report a spectrum of red cell alloantibodies characterized in patients with different clinical conditions in a reference center in India. Majority of the antibodies identified were against the blood group antigens c, D, E, M, N, S, s and Jka. Hence, apart from ABO and RhD, we recommend partial antigen matching between donor and patients for other Rh (C, c, E, e) and MNS blood group antigens to potentially reduce the risk of alloimmunization by 75%. Matching of Kell antigen is not recommended in Western India.