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Severe anemia due to Kell alloimmunization
C H Giannacopoulou1, K Relakis, M Kalmanti
1Intensive Care Unit of Neonates, University of Crete, Greece.
Haematologia
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Maternal Kell alloimmunization can cause severe fetal anemia. Early screening for red blood cell antibodies is crucial, especially with a positive indirect Coombs test in Rh-positive mothers.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Obstetrics
- Hematology
Background:
- Maternal alloimmunization, particularly to red blood cell antigens, poses a risk during pregnancy.
- Kell blood group system antibodies can cause hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN).
Observation:
- A case of Kell alloimmunization in pregnancy is presented.
- The affected infant experienced severe anemia (hemoglobin 3g/dL) and premature birth.
- The mother had a history of a blood transfusion at age 18.
Findings:
- The mother was blood group O, Rh D positive.
- The presence of anti-Kell antibody led to fetal anemia.
Implications:
- Highlights the necessity of serological screening for red blood cell antibodies in pregnant women.
- Emphasizes the importance of identifying antibodies to low-frequency antigens, even in Rh D-positive mothers with a positive indirect Coombs test.
- Suggests a review of transfusion history for potential sensitization to red blood cell antigens.