Exchange transfusion using G-6-PG deficient or Hgb-AS blood in icteric neonates

The sickle cell trait (Hgb-AS) and G-6-PD deficiency are two genetic defects which increase the hemolytic susceptibility of erythrocytes. As these two traits are common in Nigeria, blood transfusions with such defective cells are frequently given. In this study, the immediate and long-term effects of using either normal blood or blood with either or these defects for exchange transfusions in 115 neonates have been examined. Infants transfused with G-6-PD deficient blood were compared with those transfused with G-6-PD normal blood. Similarly, neonates transfused with Hgb-AS blood were compared with those who received Hgb-AA blood. There was no statistically significant difference in post-exchange serum bilirubin levels (followed for one week), hemoglobin, hematocrit, and reticulocyte counts (followed for three months). It was concluded that under normal circumstances, the use of G-6-PD deficient blood or Hgb-AS blood does not increase the risk of exchange transfusion in infants with hyperbilirubinemia.