Contextualizing prophylactic red blood cell antigen matching in the lifelong care of sickle cell disease and thalassaemia patients

Abstract

Alloimmunization to minor red blood cell antigens has been linked to patient morbidity and mortality, especially among people living with sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent thalassaemia. Prophylactic antigen matching is commonly used to prevent alloimmunization, but the evidence supporting this common practice is very limited. The report by Wolf et al. summarizes the latest literature on this topic and importantly finds that there is insufficient evidence to recommend prophylactic extended antigen matching (beyond ABO, RhD, RhCcEe and K). In an era of chronic blood shortages, this approach may help to assure patient access to elective surgery and cellular therapies, while preserving the supply of extensively antigen-matched red cells for patients with specific needs.

Commentary on: Wolf et al. Red cell specifications for blood group matching in patients with haemoglobinopathies: An updated systematic review and clinical practice guideline from the International Collaboration for Transfusion Medicine Guidelines. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:94-108.