Blood Management in a Liver Transplant Recipient with Kidd (Jka) and Rhesus (D) Antibodies: A Case Report

A A Pract. 2024 Apr 1;18(4):e01769. doi: 10.1213/XAA.0000000000001769.

Abstract

A 67-year-old man presented for urgent liver transplantation (LT). Screening revealed the rare combination of antiRhesus (D) and antiKidd Jk(a) antibodies, requiring antigen-negative red blood cells (RBC) for both phenotypes. This combination has not been reported during LT. Compatible RBCs were initially limited, requiring continued communication between the blood bank/blood supplier to obtain more, including frozen, units. Additional strategies included the use of cell salvage and intentional management of coagulopathy to limit bleeding and RBC requirement. This case highlights blood management during LT when D and Jk(a) antibodies may limit RBC supply and emphasizes the need for effective communication with the blood bank.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Kidd Blood-Group System* / genetics
  • Liver Transplantation*
  • Male

Substances

  • Kidd Blood-Group System