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Ouadghiri S, El Morabit K, Elansari N, Atouf O, Elkababri M, Hessissen L, Essakalli M. Human leukocyte antigen immunization in transfusion-dependent Moroccan patients with beta-thalassemia major: prevalence and risk factors. Hematol Transfus Cell Ther 2024; 46:360-365. [PMID: 37244818 PMCID: PMC11451420 DOI: 10.1016/j.htct.2023.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Beta-thalassemia major patients need a regular blood transfusion to have an initial normal growth. However, these patients have an increased risk of developing alloantibodies. Our main goal was to study HLA alloimmunization in Moroccan Beta-thalassemia patients by confronting it with transfusion and demographic criteria, exploring the involvement of HLA typing profile in the development of HLA antibodies and in turn determining risk factors for their development. METHODS The study consisted of 53 Moroccan pediatric patients with Beta-thalassemia major. Screening for HLA alloantibodies was performed using Luminex technology Whereas HLA genotyping was done with sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSP). RESULTS In this study, 50.9% of patients have been identified as positive for HLA antibodies, with 59.3% having both HLA Class I and Class II antibodies. A significant increase frequency of DRB1*11 allele was revealed in non-immunized patients (34.6% vs. 0%, p = 0.001). Our results also revealed that the majority of our HLA immunized patients were women (72.4% vs. 27.6%, p = 0.001), and transfused with more than 300 units of RBC units (66.7% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.02). There were statistically significant differences when comparing these frequencies. CONCLUSIONS This paper revealed that the transfusion dependent Beta-thalassemia major patients are exposed to risk of developing HLA antibodies following transfusions with leukoreduced RBC units. The HLA DRB1*11 was a protective factor against HLA alloimmunization in our beta-thalassemia major patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanae Ouadghiri
- Blood Transfusion, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco.
| | | | - Naoual Elansari
- Pediatric Oncology center of the children's Hospital, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Ouafae Atouf
- Blood Transfusion, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Maria Elkababri
- Pediatric Oncology center of the children's Hospital, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Laila Hessissen
- Pediatric Oncology center of the children's Hospital, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Malika Essakalli
- Blood Transfusion, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco; Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Mohamed V University, Rabat, Morocco
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2
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Almorish MAW, Al-Absi B, Elkhalifa AME, Alhamidi AH, Abdelrahman M. Red blood cell alloimmunization in blood transfusion-dependent β thalassemia major patients in Sana'a City-Yemen. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1005. [PMID: 38200206 PMCID: PMC10782003 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51561-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of erythrocyte alloantibodies complicates transfusion therapy in β thalassemia major patients. These antibodies increase the need for blood and intensify transfusion complications. Data on erythrocyte alloimmunization is scarce in Yemeni thalassemia patients. We studied the frequency of alloimmunization in multitransfused β-thalassemia major patients and investigated risk factors that affect antibody formation. Blood samples were taken from 100 β thalassemia major patients who received multitransfused leukodepleted packed red-blood cells. Antibody screening and identification were performed by indirect antiglobulin test using the gel column technique. All patients were tested for autoantibodies using autocontrol and direct antiglobulin test. No adsorption test was done as no autoantibodies were detected in any patient. In our study of 100 β-thalassemia patients, 50 were male and 50 were female with ages ranging from 1 to 30 years. Alloantibodies were present in 6% of patients, while no autoantibodies were detected. Of the 17 alloantibodies identified, the majority were directed against Kell (41.2%) and Rh (29.4%) blood groups. Alloimmunization was significantly associated with age group and sex (p = 0.013, p = 0.030), respectively in β thalassemia major patients. The development of alloantibodies was not significantly associated with duration, total number of transfusions and splenectomy (P = 0.445, P = 0.125, P = 0.647). No autoantibodies found in patients with β thalassemia major. The study found low rates of erythrocyte alloimmunization in multitransfused β-thalassemia major patients, but significant alloantibodies were produced primarily from Kell and Rh blood groups, suggesting the need for providing phenotypically matched cells for selective antigens to improve transfusion efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A W Almorish
- Hematology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen.
| | - Boshra Al-Absi
- Hematology Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen
| | - Ahmed M E Elkhalifa
- College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz H Alhamidi
- Clinical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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3
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Hodroj MH, Akiki N, Bou-Fakhredin R, Taher AT. Beta-thalassemia: is cure still a dream? Minerva Med 2023; 114:850-860. [PMID: 37534831 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.23.08501-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
β-thalassemia is a monogenic disorder characterized by decreased hemoglobin production, resulting in chronic anemia. There are several factors affecting the clinical presentation of patients with β-thalassemia, and several complications such as iron overload or ineffective erythropoiesis have been linked to this disease. Until nowadays, several conservative therapies namely blood transfusions, iron chelation, and the FDA-approved drug Luspatercept have been adopted alongside other debatable permanent cures. Other clinical trials are being conducted to develop better and safer management techniques for these patients. This review will discuss the different treatment strategies of β-thalassemia including novel therapies, besides all possible curative therapies that are being developed for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad H Hodroj
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Nathalie Akiki
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rayan Bou-Fakhredin
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ali T Taher
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon -
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4
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Wilson MM, El Masry MMW, El-Ghamrawy MK, El-Hadi NA, Abou-Elalla AA. Study of the Frequency and Specificity of Red Cell Antibodies in Patients with Hemoglobinopathies. Indian J Hematol Blood Transfus 2023; 39:579-585. [PMID: 37786822 PMCID: PMC10542054 DOI: 10.1007/s12288-023-01651-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) require blood transfusions as part of their supportive care. However, one of the most serious side effects of this treatment is the risk of red cell alloimmunization. The goal of this study was to assess the prevalence and Specificity of red cell alloimmunization in Egyptian thalassemia and sickle cell anaemia patients. This study included 200 multi transfused Egyptian patients, one hundred and forty patients with transfusion dependent thalassaemia and sixty patients with sickle cell anaemia, who were attending the Paediatric Children Hospital-Cairo University at the period from March 2019 to October 2019. Alloantibody identification was made by Diamed- ID microtyping system. In the studied groups both thalassemia and sickle patients, the prevalence of alloimmunization was 22/200 (11%) patients. The two most often alloantibodies were, antibodies against Kell antigen (37%) and against E antigen (30%). The prevalence of alloimmunization was more in females in comparison to males, but it did not reach statistical significance and patients with thalassemia major had higher alloimmunization rates than other studied groups but was not statistically significant. In the D negative patients in the research group, alloimmunization demonstrated a statistically significant difference (p = 0.01). Age, gender, age of transfusion onset and splenectomy were not contributing factors to the antibody presence in the group of patients being investigated. Before receiving blood transfusions, extended red blood cell phenotyping should be thought of as a crucial procedure for hemoglobinopathies patients who would likely have several transfusions. It is advised that haemoglobinopathies patients in Egypt be checked through phenotyping of RBC units for Kell and all Rh antigens to be phenotyped before starting transfusion in these patients which is also standard of care for these patients presently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal M. Wilson
- Departments of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Manal M. W. El Masry
- Departments of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Nessma Abd El-Hadi
- Departments of Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amany A. Abou-Elalla
- Technology of Medical Laboratory Department, Faculty of Applied Health Science, Misr University for Science and Technology, Cairo, Egypt
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5
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Li N, Wu B, Wang J, Yan Y, An P, Li Y, Liu Y, Hou Y, Qing X, Niu L, Ding X, Xie Z, Zhang M, Guo X, Chen X, Cai T, Luo J, Wang F, Yang F. Differential proteomic patterns of plasma extracellular vesicles show potential to discriminate β-thalassemia subtypes. iScience 2023; 26:106048. [PMID: 36824279 PMCID: PMC9941134 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The observed specificity of β-thalassemia-subtype phenotypes makes new diagnostic strategies that complement current screening methods necessary to determine each subtype and facilitate therapeutic regimens for different patients. Here, we performed quantitative proteomics of plasma-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) of β-thalassemia major (TM) patients, β-thalassemia intermedia (TI) patients, and healthy controls to explore subgroup characteristics and potential biomarkers. Plasma quantitative proteomics among the same cohorts were analyzed in parallel to compare the biomarker potential of both specimens. EV proteomics showed significantly more abnormalities in immunity and lipid metabolism in TI and TM, respectively. The differential proteomic patterns of EVs were consistent with but more striking than those of plasma. Notably, we also found EV proteins to have a superior performance for discriminating β-thalassemia subtypes. These findings allowed us to propose a diagnostic model consisting of five proteins in EVs with subtyping potential, demonstrating the ability of plasma-derived EVs for the diagnosis of β-thalassemia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bowen Wu
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jifeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yumeng Yan
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peng An
- Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuezhen Li
- Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuning Liu
- Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yanfei Hou
- Department of Nutrition and Health, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiaoqing Qing
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lili Niu
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiang Ding
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhensheng Xie
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Mengmeng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xiaojing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiulan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tanxi Cai
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jianming Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021 China
| | - Fudi Wang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, School of Public Health, State Key Laboratory of Experimental Hematology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fuquan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Protein and Peptide Pharmaceuticals & Laboratory of Proteomics, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Corresponding author
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6
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Patterson S, Singleton A, Branscomb J, Nsonwu V, Spratling R. Transfusion Complications in Thalassemia: Patient Knowledge and Perspectives. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:772886. [PMID: 35299838 PMCID: PMC8923080 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.772886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic transfusion, used to manage clinically significant forms of thalassemia, carries complication risks including iron overload, alloimmunization, and allergic or hemolytic reactions. Dissemination and implementation of evidence-based guidelines for minimizing these risks are complicated by the small numbers and increasing dispersion of the thalassemia population. This elevates patients' role in understanding and communicating with providers about treatment. The present study sought to assess thalassemia patients' knowledge of transfusion, complications, and guidelines; their experience of clinicians' following guidelines; and their perspectives on ways to store and share personal transfusion data. A convenience sample of 32 patients participated in structured interviews. Most, if not all, understood iron overload, chelation therapy, blood typing, and cross-matching. Awareness of each of five of evidence-based transfusion guidelines that were discussed ranged from 72 to 88%. Patients expressed privacy concerns about each of three data storage options, slightly less for a registry than for a wallet card or smartphone app. The registry also avoided concerns that the other options placed extra burden on patients. Recommendations include increased education on the meaning and significance of packed, washed red blood cells, leuko-reduction, and detailed cross-matching, and implementation of a nationwide registry to make transfusion data available to providers anywhere at the point of care. Registry implementation should be sensitive to patients' privacy and security concerns, but also help them appropriately weigh those against safety benefits. These actions could help reduce transfusion complications in thalassemia by improving patient efficacy and increasing adherence to evidence-based guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sashoy Patterson
- Georgia Health Policy Center, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ashley Singleton
- Georgia Health Policy Center, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jane Branscomb
- Georgia Health Policy Center, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Vivien Nsonwu
- School of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Regena Spratling
- Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Hsiao HH, Yeh CJ, Ting SC, Chuang TM, Ke YL, Yeh TJ, Gau YC, Du JS, Hsiao CE, Wang HC, Cho SF, Hsu CM, Liu YC. Is it reasonable for the use of Rh-ee blood? A hospital-based survey from a southern medical center in Taiwan. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2021; 38:65-69. [PMID: 34647681 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of alloantibodies and achieving a reduction in the rate of red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization are important issues to prevent transfusion complications. The aim of this study was to identify the antigen and alloantibodies in our patients and to study the association of alloimmunization with previous transfusion. Transfusion records from the blood bank of Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital between 2015 and 2017 were retrospectively enrolled in the study. Antigen and antibody identification was performed using routine blood bank methods. In total, 56,422 transfusion records from 2015 to 2017 were included in the study. Among them, 1858 alloantibody episodes were found in the pre-transfusion survey, and anti-Mia, anti-E, and cold antibodies were the most common alloantibodies, with a prevalence of 3.29% (1858/56,422). Among them, 130 episodes involved newly found alloantibodies with no alloantibodies found in the previous transfusion survey. Tracing back to these newly transfusion-induced alloantibodies, the antibody was found with a mean of 10.8 ± 7.8 units of packed RBC transfusion, a mean of 66.3 ± 52.8 days, and with a mean of 4.3 ± 2.7 times of transfusion from the first transfusion therapy. An antibody survey revealed that Rh-ee (62.1%) was the most common phenotype in these newly identified antibodies. In summary, this hospital-based study revealed that RBC alloantibody rates were present at rates of 3.29%, with anti-Mia, anti-E, and cold antibodies being the most common alloantibodies. Among them, anti-E was the most commonly developed alloantibody. Given that the Rh-ee group is the most common phenotype in our population, the strategy of using Rh-ee blood for Rh-ee recipients is reasonable for transfusion safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hua Hsiao
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Center for Liquid Biopsy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Cancer center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Jung Yeh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Cell Research, Chang Bing Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Shuo-Chun Ting
- Blood bank, Department of laboratory medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tzer-Ming Chuang
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Lun Ke
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Jang Yeh
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chin Gau
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jeng-Shiun Du
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chi-En Hsiao
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ching Wang
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Feng Cho
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Mu Hsu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Center for Liquid Biopsy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chang Liu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Faculty of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.,Blood bank, Department of laboratory medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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8
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Kasraian L, Khodadi E, Talei A, Morvarid MR, Haddadi D, Foruozandeh H. Red Blood Cell Alloimmunization Rates and Related Factors of Patients with Thalassemia in Shiraz, Iran. Lab Med 2021; 53:194-198. [PMID: 34644379 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmab079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The development of antibodies against red blood cell (RBC) antigens is one of the most significant adverse effects of chronic blood transfusions. This study aimed to estimate the frequency and causes of RBC immunization in patients with major thalassemia. METHODS The findings could help determine the limitation of current practices and help future developments in the selection of suitable blood units for the transfusion support of patients with thalassemia. RESULTS The alloimmunization rate was detected in 52 of 650 patients with major thalassemia (8%). The most frequent antibodies were against K (50%), D (26%), and E (15.4%). Sex, age, and splenectomy did not have any impact on the immunization rate. Immunization was lower in patients who had received only leuko-reduced blood units. CONCLUSION It is recommended that antibody screening before the first transfusion and extended RBC matching particularly for the most frequent antigens (ABO/Rh/Kell) should be performed for patients with thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Kasraian
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine-Microbiology Department, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elahe Khodadi
- Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathy Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Talei
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine-Microbiology Department, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Davood Haddadi
- Medical Department, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hossein Foruozandeh
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
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9
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Watanaboonyongcharoen P, Akkawat B, Tohthong T, Rojnuckarin P. High B-cell activating factor levels in multi-transfused thalassemia patients. Transfus Med 2021; 31:350-356. [PMID: 34396626 DOI: 10.1111/tme.12806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the associations between B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and alloimmunisation in multi-transfused thalassemia. BACKGROUND Red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunisation is a complication of multi-transfused thalassemia. BAFF is promoting B cells that produce alloantibodies. METHODS/MATERIALS Multi-transfused thalassemia, 15 years or older, were recruited in the cohort study. Alloantibodies and BAFF levels were analysed. RESULTS Of 114 patients, the overall prevalence of RBC alloimmunisation was 29.8%. The most common alloantibodies were anti-E, anti-Mia and anti-c. BAFF levels were different among the three groups; the patients with baseline alloantibodies (median ± interquartile range 1251 ± 474 pg/ml), without alloantibodies (1098 ± 453) and healthy controls (719 ± 306), p < 0.001. The BAFF level was elevated in the >25 years old patients (vs. the <25, p = 0.011) and the buffy-coat-reduced blood recipients (vs. the pre-storage leukocyte-depletion, p = 0.005). Absolute lymphocyte count was higher in the patients without baseline alloantibodies (vs. with baseline alloantibodies, p = 0.049) and the splenectomised patients (vs. the non-splenectomised patients, p < 0.001). Of the 72 patients without baseline antibodies, four who developed new antibodies showed no statistically different BAFF levels compared with those without new antibodies after 40-month follow-up (1296 ± 734 vs. 1062 ± 460, p = 0.491). In multivariate analysis, BAFF to absolute lymphocyte ratio was independently associated with RBC alloimmunisation (odds ratio 3.07, 95% confidence interval 1.124-8.369, p = 0.029). CONCLUSION B-cell activating factor (BAFF) levels were elevated in multi-transfused thalassemia and the BAFF to absolute lymphocyte ratio was associated with red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phandee Watanaboonyongcharoen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Transfusion Medicine Unit, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.,Renal Immunology and Renal Transplant Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Benjaporn Akkawat
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thanida Tohthong
- Transfusion Medicine Unit, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ponlapat Rojnuckarin
- Transfusion Medicine Unit, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.,Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit in Translational Hematology, Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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10
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Expression of the immune checkpoint receptors CTLA-4, LAG-3, and TIM-3 in β-thalassemia major patients: correlation with alloantibody production and regulatory T cells (Tregs) phenotype. Ann Hematol 2021; 100:2463-2469. [PMID: 34324022 DOI: 10.1007/s00277-021-04605-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Alloimmunization is a serious complication in β-thalassemia major patients as a result of repeated blood transfusion. The immune checkpoint receptors play an important role in regulating immune system homeostasis and the function of the immune cells. This study aimed to evaluate the expression of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), lymphocyte activation gene 3 (LAG-3), and T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein-3 (TIM-3) immune checkpoint molecules in β-thalassemia major patients with and without alloantibody. For this purpose, 68 β-thalassemia major patients with (34 patients) and without (34 patients) alloantibody as well as 20 healthy controls were enrolled. The expression of these genes was evaluated in different groups of patients by SYBR Green real-time PCR method. Our results showed that the mean expression of LAG-3 was significantly increased in thalassemia patients compared to the control group (*P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in expression of the CTLA-4 and TIM-3 as well as LAG-3 genes between patients with and without alloantibody (P > 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between the level of LAG-3 expression with markers associated with Treg function including FOXP3 and GDF-15 genes in β-thalassemia major patients. Taken together, the LAG-3 molecule might have a more prominent role in the abnormality of the immune system in thalassemia patients especially the function of regulatory T cells (Tregs), prior to the CTLA-4 and TIM-3 genes.
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Ang AL, Lim CY, Ng WY, Lam JCM. Non-transfusion dependent thalassemia is independently associated with higher alloimmunization risk than transfusion dependent thalassemia and would benefit the most from extended red cell antigen-matching. Transfusion 2021; 61:2566-2577. [PMID: 34258773 DOI: 10.1111/trf.16590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alloimmunization prevalence is conventionally used to identify RBCs alloimmunization risk factors among thalassemia patients, but it may be confounded by differences in transfusion exposure especially between non-transfusion dependent thalassemia (NTDT) and transfusion dependent thalassemia (TDT) patients. To better identify thalassemia patients with high alloimmunization risks, we used cumulative incidence of first alloimmunization as a function of RBCs transfused to compare alloimmunization risks between TDT and NTDT and to evaluate other risk factors. We also proposed practical strategies to prevent alloimmunization in thalassemia. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS Adult TDT and NTDT patients who had received ≥2 transfusions and no alloimmunization before their first transfusion were included. Alloimmunization was defined as the development of clinically significant alloantibodies. We estimated the first alloimmunization incidence from transfusion by Kaplan-Meier analysis with the horizontal axis expressed as cumulative non-antigen-matched RBC units transfused. We compared this incidence between TDT and NTDT, and analyzed for other alloimmunization risk factors and the alloantibody specificities/frequencies. RESULTS The alloimmunization prevalence was similar between TDT and NTDT (27% vs. 30% respectively, p = .726). However, for the same transfusion exposure, NTDT had higher alloimmunization incidence than TDT (hazard ratio 8.59, 95% confidence interval [2.25-32.74], p = .002), independent of age at first transfusion and last follow-up, gender, and splenectomy. Anti-E, anti-c, anti-Mia , and anti-Jka were most frequent. DISCUSSION NTDT has the highest alloimmunization risk and would benefit the most from extended RBC antigen-matching, especially C, c, E, and e. Other blood group antigen-matching should be guided by the patient/donor disparities and alloantibody frequencies in different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Leen Ang
- Department of Hematology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore.,Blood Services Group, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
| | - Chiew Ying Lim
- Hematology/Oncology Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Weng Yik Ng
- Blood Services Group, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
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El-Beshlawy A, Salama AA, El-Masry MR, El Husseiny NM, Abdelhameed AM. A study of red blood cell alloimmunization and autoimmunization among 200 multitransfused Egyptian β thalassemia patients. Sci Rep 2020; 10:21079. [PMID: 33273689 PMCID: PMC7713136 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78333-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of hemolytic erythrocyte alloantibodies and autoantibodies complicates transfusion therapy in thalassemia patients. These antibodies ultimately increase the need for blood and intensify transfusion complications. There is a scanty data on the frequency of RBC alloimmunization and autoimmunization in Egyptian β thalassemia patients as pretransfusion antibody screening is not routinely performed. We studied the frequency of alloimmunization and autoimmunization among 200 multiply transfused β thalassemia patients and investigated the factors that possibly affect antibody formation. Of the 200 patients in our study, 94 were males and 106 females, with the age range of 2–37 years. Alloantibodies were detected in 36 (18%) of the patients, while autoantibodies were detected in 33 (16.5%). The dominant alloantibodies were directed against Kell (33%) and Rh (24.4%) groups. Alloimmunization had a significant relationship with treatment duration and the frequency of transfusion (P = 0.007, 0.001, respectively). The presence of autoantibodies was significantly related to age (P = 0.001), total number of transfused units (P = 0.000) and splenectomy (P = 0.000). The high prevalence of alloimmunization in the study population disclosed the need for providing phenotypically matched cells for selective antigens especially for Kell and Rh subgroups to reduce risk of alloimmunization and increase the efficiency of blood transfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal El-Beshlawy
- Department of Pediatric Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Mohamed Roshdy El-Masry
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha M El Husseiny
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.,Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asmaa M Abdelhameed
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Haematology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt. .,Armed Forces College of Medicine (AFCM), Cairo, Egypt.
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Abdulqader AMR, Mohammed AI, Mohammed NI. Red Cell Alloimmunization and Autoimmunization in Multi-Transfused Thalassemia Patients in Sulaymaniyah Province-Iraq. KOREAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.15324/kjcls.2020.52.2.98] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Ibrahim Mohammed
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Sulaymaniyah, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
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Al-Riyami AZ, Daar S. Red cell alloimmunization in transfusion-dependent and transfusion-independent beta thalassemia: A review from the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO). Transfus Apher Sci 2019; 58:102678. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transci.2019.102678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Study of Frequency and Characteristics of Red Blood Cell Alloimmunization in Thalassemic Patients: Multicenter Study from Palestine. Adv Hematol 2019; 2019:3295786. [PMID: 31781225 PMCID: PMC6875311 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3295786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. β-Thalassemia is a common inherited hemolytic disorder in Palestine. Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is the principal treatment but it may cause RBC alloimmunization. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and characteristics of RBC alloimmunization among thalassemic patients in northern governorates of Palestine. Methods. A prospective multicenter observational study was conducted in the thalassemia transfusion centers in the northern governorates of Palestine. The study included 215 thalassemia patients who received regular blood transfusions. Clinical and transfusion records of patients were examined. Antibody screening and identification was conducted using the microcolum gel technique. Results. Two hundred fifteen patients were included in the study. More than half (52.1%) of the patients were males. The median age of patients was 18 years (range: 12–24 years). The most frequent blood group was A (40.5%). Alloantibodies were detected in 12.6% of patients. Anti-D (33.3%), anti-K (25.9%) and anti-E (14.8%) were the most commonly isolated antibodies. There was no association between age, sex, starting age of transfusion, number of transfused units, history of splenectomy and alloimmunization. Conclusions. Anti-Rh and anti-K antibodies were common among this cohort of patients. Age, sex, starting age of transfusion, number of transfused units, and history of splenectomy could not predict the occurrence of alloimmunization.
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Shah FT, Sayani F, Trompeter S, Drasar E, Piga A. Challenges of blood transfusions in β-thalassemia. Blood Rev 2019; 37:100588. [PMID: 31324412 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2019.100588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Patients with β-thalassemia major (BTM) require regular blood transfusions, supported by appropriate iron chelation therapy (ICT), throughout their life. β-thalassemia is a global disease that is most highly prevalent in Southeast Asia, Africa, and Mediterranean countries. However, the global distribution of patients with β-thalassemia is changing due to population migration, and Northern European countries now have significant thalassemia populations. Globally, many patients with BTM have limited access to regular and safe blood transfusions. A lack of voluntary nonremunerated blood donors, poor awareness of thalassemia, a lack of national blood policies, and fragmented blood services contribute to a significant gap between the timely supply of, and demand for, safe blood. In many centers, there is inadequate provision of antigen testing, even for common red cell antigens such as CcEe and Kell. Policies to raise awareness and increase the use of red blood cell antigen testing and requesting of compatible blood in transfusion centers are needed to reduce alloimmunization (the development of antibodies to red blood cell antigens), which limits the effectiveness of transfusions and the potential availability of blood. Patients with BTM are also at risk of transfusion-transmitted infections unless appropriate blood screening and safety practices are in place. Hence, many patients are not transfused or are undertransfused, resulting in decreased health and quality-of-life outcomes. Hemovigilance, leukoreduction, and the ability to thoroughly investigate transfusion reactions are often lacking, especially in resource-poor countries. ICT is essential to prevent cardiac failure and other complications due to iron accumulation. Despite the availability of potentially inexpensive oral ICT, a high proportion of patients suffer complications of iron overload and die each year due to a lack of, or inadequate, ICT. Increased awareness, training, and resources are required to improve and standardize adequate blood transfusion services and ICT among the worldwide population of patients with BTM. ICT needs to be available, affordable, and correctly prescribed. Effective, safe, and affordable new treatments that reduce the blood transfusion burden in patients with β-thalassemia remain an unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Farzana Sayani
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Sara Trompeter
- University College London Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; NHS Blood and Transplant, Bristol, UK.
| | - Emma Drasar
- Whittington Health NHS Trust, London, UK; University College London Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
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Red blood cell alloimmunisation in transfusion-dependent thalassaemia: a systematic review. BLOOD TRANSFUSION = TRASFUSIONE DEL SANGUE 2019; 17:4-15. [PMID: 30653458 DOI: 10.2450/2019.0229-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic red blood cell transfusion is the first-line treatment for severe forms of thalassaemia. This therapy is, however, hampered by a number of adverse effects, including red blood cell alloimmunisation. The aim of this systematic review was to collect the current literature data on erythrocyte alloimmunisation. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a systematic search of the literature which identified 41 cohort studies involving 9,256 patients. RESULTS The prevalence of erythrocyte alloimmunisation was 11.4% (95% CI: 9.3-13.9%) with a higher rate of alloimmunisation against antigens of the Rh (52.4%) and Kell (25.6%) systems. Overall, alloantibodies against antigens belonging to the Rh and Kell systems accounted for 78% of the cases. A higher prevalence of red blood cell alloimmunisation was found in patients with thalassaemia intermedia compared to that among patients with thalassaemia major (15.5 vs 12.8%). DISCUSSION Matching transfusion-dependent thalassaemia patients and red blood cell units for Rh and Kell antigens should be able to reduce the risk of red blood cell alloimmunisation by about 80%.
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Romphruk AV, Simtong P, Butryojantho C, Pimphumee R, Junta N, Srichai S, Komvilaisak P, Puapairoj C. The prevalence, alloimmunization risk factors, antigenic exposure, and evaluation of antigen‐matched red blood cells for thalassemia transfusions: a 10‐year experience at a tertiary care hospital. Transfusion 2018; 59:177-184. [DOI: 10.1111/trf.15002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amornrat V. Romphruk
- Blood Transfusion CenterFaculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
| | - Piyapong Simtong
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion SciencesFaculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
| | - Chalawan Butryojantho
- Blood Transfusion CenterFaculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
| | | | - Ninnate Junta
- Blood Transfusion CenterFaculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
| | - Supawadee Srichai
- Blood Transfusion CenterFaculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
| | - Patcharee Komvilaisak
- Department of PediatricsFaculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
| | - Chintana Puapairoj
- Blood Transfusion CenterFaculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University Khon Kaen Thailand
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A paradigm shift on beta-thalassaemia treatment: How will we manage this old disease with new therapies? Blood Rev 2018; 32:300-311. [DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2018.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Al-Riyami AZ, Al-Muqbali A, Al-Sudiri S, Murthi Panchatcharam S, Zacharia M, Al-Mahrooqi S, Al-Hosni S, Al-Marhoobi A, Daar S. Risks of red blood cell alloimmunization in transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia in Oman: a 25-year experience of a university tertiary care reference center and a literature review. Transfusion 2018; 58:871-878. [DOI: 10.1111/trf.14508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 11/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Arwa Z. Al-Riyami
- Department of Hematology; Sultan Qaboos University Hospital; Muscat Oman
| | - Ayman Al-Muqbali
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences; Sultan Qaboos University; Muscat Oman
| | - Saif Al-Sudiri
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences; Sultan Qaboos University; Muscat Oman
| | | | - Mathew Zacharia
- Department of Child Health; Sultan Qaboos University Hospital; Muscat Oman
| | - Sabah Al-Mahrooqi
- Department of Hematology; Sultan Qaboos University Hospital; Muscat Oman
| | - Saif Al-Hosni
- Department of Hematology; Sultan Qaboos University Hospital; Muscat Oman
| | - Ali Al-Marhoobi
- Department of Hematology; Sultan Qaboos University Hospital; Muscat Oman
| | - Shahina Daar
- Department of Hematology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences; Sultan Qaboos University; Muscat Oman
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Abstract
Thalassemia is the most common monogenic hematologic disease that affects millions in the world and kills thousands of patients every year. Without transfusion or transplantation, patients with thalassemia major are expected to die within months of diagnosis. However, long-term transfusion and chelation therapy is highly challenging for many developing countries where the disease is prevalent, representing a major and unsustainable health burden. Stem cell transplantation is the only cure for thalassemia. It has witnessed major developments that have made it less toxic, more successful, and feasible for a larger number of patients with diverse comorbidities and from a wider range of donors. Advances in human leukocyte antigen typing have greatly refined alternate donor selection with results of matched unrelated donors similar to matched sibling donors. Novel strategies such as haploidentical and cord blood transplantation have increased the possibility of patients with no healthy donor to get a better opportunity to survive and avoid chronic transfusion complications. Cost-effectively, transplantation should be considered the primary treatment of choice in the presence of a suitable related or unrelated donor and at centers with a satisfactory experience in the field of transplantation and particularly, in managing those with thalassemia. Despite some complications such as graft-versus-host disease and late conditioning effects, the overall improvement in the quality of life of thalassemia is difficult to deny. Unfortunately, the number of transplants for thalassemia represents only a minority of all transplants conducted globally and the essential requirement for transplants for thalassemia in limited-resources countries should mandate the transplant societies, including Worldwide Network for Blood and Marrow Transplantation, to collaborate to help initiate and support specialized transfusion and transplant programs for managing thalassemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Said Y Mohamed
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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