Human platelet antigen polymorphisms (HPA-1, -2, -3, -4, -5 and -15) in major ethnic groups of Pakistan

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F A Bhatti1, M Uddin, A Ahmed

  • 1PNS Shifa Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. farhatab@hotmail.com

Transfusion Medicine (Oxford, England)
|December 2, 2009
PubMed

Insights

This study determined human platelet antigen (HPA) gene frequencies in Pakistan, revealing variations that impact platelet transfusion and neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia risks. Establishing HPA-typed donor registries is recommended.

Area of Science:

  • Immunogenetics
  • Population genetics
  • Transfusion medicine

Background:

  • Human platelet antigen (HPA) gene frequencies are crucial for understanding and managing platelet immunological disorders.
  • The HPA profile of the Pakistani population was previously unknown, limiting targeted transfusion strategies and disorder management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the gene frequencies of key human platelet antigens (HPA-1 to -5 and -15) across major ethnic groups and castes in Pakistan.
  • To assess the implications of these frequencies for platelet transfusion compatibility and the incidence of related immunological disorders.

Main Methods:

  • HPA genotyping was performed on 593 individuals from diverse Pakistani ethnic backgrounds.
  • The polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primers (PCR-SSP) method was employed for genotyping, with results detected using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

Main Results:

  • Gene frequencies for HPA-1 to -5 and -15 alleles were established for the Pakistani population, with notable variations in HPA-3 between Pathans and Sindhis.
  • Estimated mismatch probabilities for platelet transfusions range from 14-37%, indicating potential for alloimmunization.
  • The expected incidence of neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (NAIT) due to anti-HPA-1a is less than 1 in 1000 pregnancies, and due to anti-HPA-5b is 8-12 in 1000.

Conclusions:

  • The established HPA gene frequencies provide essential data for transfusion services in Pakistan.
  • There is a critical need to develop and implement HPA-typed donor registries within national transfusion centers to improve patient outcomes.
Abstract

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