Mapping red blood cell phenotypes in Malaysia: A tool to overcome transfusion challenges for providing phenotype...

As is widely known, blood group antigens are found in varying proportions in individuals of different races and geographical places. The aim of this study is to determine and compare the distribution of red blood cell (RBC) phenotypes in blood donors between the major ethnic groups in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak based on the Malaysian population.

A total of 1213 voluntary blood donors were randomly recruited among those who donated in the National Blood Centre and 10 other different blood banks in state hospitals or their mobile blood donation sessions from January 2021 to December 2021. All donors were typed for blood group systems: ABO, Rh, Kidd, Duffy, MNS, and Kell by automated system using the Galileo Neo Analyser.

The comparison of the prevalence of the RBC phenotypes among the different ethnic groups as analyzed by Fisher's exact test, showed significant differences (P < 0.05) for Rh, Kidd, Duffy, MN, and Ss blood group antigen. The rare phenotypes: CCDEE (RZRZ) was found in three Malay, Jk (a-b-) in one Chinese, and two Murut, and SS in 8 donors.

The mapping of RBC phenotypes among major ethnic groups in blood donors in Peninsular, Sabah, and Sarawak, Malaysia, can aid in strengthening the database for the Rare Blood Donor Registry based on the Malaysian population. This study's finding can also be used to expedite the provision of antigen-negative blood for the transfusion of patients with unexpected red cells antibodies. This will improve the quality and effectiveness of transfusion services in Malaysia.