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

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

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.

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

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.