Objectives: Autoantibodies mimicking alloantibodies (referred to as mimicking antibodies) are a type of specific antibody that reacts with all red blood cells, but exhibits a stronger reaction with red blood cells expressing the target antigens. This study aimed to explore immunohematologic methods for identifying mimicking antibodies, autoantibodies and alloantibodies, and to formulate safe transfusion strategies based on the results.
Methods: ABO, Rh blood types and direct antiglobulin test were determined using the tube saline method. Antibody detection and identification were performed using tube saline and anti-human globulin microcolumn gel method with two sets of panel red blood cells. The specificity of antibodies was confirmed through absorption elution test, antibody dilution and titer integral method.
Results: The study identified the presence of both anti-c and anti-E alloantibodies as well as anti-c and anti-E mimicking antibodies in patient samples. Based on these findings, suitable A-type CCDee donors can be selected for the patient, while avoiding both mimicking antibodies and alloantibodies.
Conclusion: When mimicking antibodies, autoantibodies and alloantibodies are present in patients, either separately or simultaneously, antibody identification can be challenging. Accurate determination of the type and specificity of antibodies is essential for developing safe transfusion strategies in clinical practice.
Keywords: Alloantibodies; Antibody identification; Autoantibodies mimicking alloantibodies.
© 2024 Published by Elsevier Ltd.