[Isoimmune antibody formation after blood transfusions]

During February 1973 to October 1974 950 inpatients of the Department of Surgery, Erlangen, were tested for the presence of iso-antibodies before and after blood transfusions. Irregular antibodies were demonstrable in 0.95% of the patients before they received a blood transfusion. In 2.73% of the cases blood transfusion resulted in sensitization with the formation of specific blood group antibodies. Identification of the 26 iso-antibodies showed a prevalence of anti-Kell and anti-E (7 cases each). In view of the frequent occurrence of these two antigens tests for their presence are advisable before a blood transfusion is given. Persons who are re-admitted to hospital should also be tested to the presence of irregular antibodies to ensure that sensitization has not occurred during the intervening period.