Kell alloimmunization in pregnancy: Lessons to be learnt

Abstract

With the introduction of anti-D prophylaxis, the incidence of RhD alloimmunization in pregnancy has been significantly reduced. RhD remains the most common cause of hemolytic disease of fetus and newborn (HDFN). Next to anti-D, anti-K and anti-c have been implicated in severe HDFN. Hereby, we report a case of Kell alloimmunization in pregnancy which is a leading cause of HDFN worldwide. This case highlights the need for tertiary care hospitals to establish a well-defined protocol for the management of Kell alloimmunization in antenatal females. Most commonly, Kell alloimmunization is secondary to previous transfusions, and hence, every attempt should be made for primary prevention, i.e., Rh-Kell-matched transfusions for women of reproductive age group.

Keywords

• Hemolytic disease of fetus and newborn
• Kell blood group
• red cell alloimmunization
• transfusion