Identification of a Rare Antibody (Anti-Inb) During a Workup for a Hysterectomy

Abstract

Background The International Society of Blood Transfusion has recently recognised 33 blood group systems representing over 300 antigens on the red cell membranes [1]. Blood grouping and cross matching is a vital pre-operative investigation prior to gynaecological surgery where blood loss may be unpredictable. To avoid a transfusionrelated reaction, thorough typing and cross-matching analysis should take place especially when rare antibodies are identified [1]. In this report, we discuss the case of a woman in whom the presence of anti-Inb red cell antibodies was identified. This group of antibodies belongs to the Indian blood group system and was first identified in 1975 [1].