The prevalence of Anti-A1 in donors with A2 and A2B blood groups in Bushehr Blood Transfusion Organization from 2017 to 2023: Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: The presence of anti-A1 antibodies in individuals with A2 and A2B blood types can have clinical significance, particularly in transfusion medicine, organ transplantation, and genetic studies, as these antibodies may lead to hemolytic reactions. Therefore, assessing the prevalence of anti-A1 antibodies is essential to ensure patient safety. This study aimed to determine the frequency of A2 and A2B blood types with anti-A1 antibodies among blood donors in Bushehr Province. Materials and Methods: The cell typing and reverse (back) typing results of all donors referred to the Blood Transfusion Institute in Bushehr Province between 2017 and 2023 were examined to identify any discrepancies between forward and reverse blood grouping. Donors with cell type A or AB and reverse type O were included in the evaluation. The collected data were then analyzed using statistical software. The study determined the frequency of A2 and A2B blood groups with anti-A1 antibodies among donors in Bushehr Province during the specified period. Results: Between 2017 and 2023, a total of 160,435 individuals donated blood in Bushehr Province, comprising 7,497 females and 152,938 males. Among these donors, blood group analysis identified five male individuals with the A2B blood type. Conclusion: Although the prevalence of anti-A1 antibodies in individuals with A2 and A2B blood types is rare, it remains clinically significant due to the potential for serological reactivity during transfusion. Accurate identification of these subgroups is essential for precise ABO blood grouping. ABO discrepancies occur when forward and reverse typing results do not align. For the safety of patients, it is crucial that such discrepancies are thoroughly investigated and resolved before confirming the blood group and issuing compatible blood products