The ABO and Rhesus blood group systems are the most clinically relevant blood group systems from haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN) and haemolytic transfusion reaction (HTR) perspectives. Other clinically relevant blood group systems include the Kell, Duffy, Kidd and MNSs blood group systems. The clinical relevance of a blood group system depends on the ability of antibodies of the system to cause HDFN and HTR. This chapter discusses the distribution of ABO, Rhesus and other clinically relevant red cell antigens among Nigerians and implications for HDFN and HTR. There are several challenges associated with the management of Rhesus negative pregnancies, pregnancies associated with clinically significant alloantibodies, implementation of policy on routine antenatal anti-D prophylaxis (RAADP), management of Rhesus negative women that require termination of pregnancy (TOP), provision of antigen negative blood for certain patient groups and the management of pregnant and non-pregnant patients with clinically significant alloantibodies. This chapter highlights the need for Nigeria and other African countries to implement best practices to optimize the care offered to pregnant women as well as patients in whom red cell transfusion is indicated.
Part of the book: Human Blood Group Systems and Haemoglobinopathies
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a major public health challenge. It is a common cause of acute and chronic illness and death, which results from a single amino acid substitution (glutamic acid to valine) at position 6 of the beta (β) chain of the hemoglobin molecule. The pathophysiology is based on the polymerization of deoxygenated hemoglobin S (HbS) and production of irreversibly sickled red cells and vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC). The disease is associated with recurrent episodes of acute pain and organ damage. This chapter highlights the role of SES on the predisposition to VOC and mortality among SCD patients. Findings from this review will enable the development and implementation of policies that can facilitate the effective management of SCD in the region. More awareness and education of parents of children and adults living with SCD are needed to identify factors that predispose patients to VOC and common-sense measures to prevent these triggers. SCD patients should be protected against malaria. The need for nutritional intervention, proper hydration, avoidance of dietary intake of sodium, strenuous physical activity, and extreme weather to reduce the incidence of VOC cannot be overemphasized. Protective immunization and access to effective prophylactic and therapeutic agents should be implemented.
Part of the book: Sickle Cell Disease