Phenotyped red blood cells are packed red blood cells for which antigens other than ABO and RhD have been tested. The determination of a phenotype is used to verify the presence or absence of an antigen on the surface of the red blood cells using an antiserum specific to the antigen being sought.

Action

Phenotyped red blood cells have the same function and post-transfusion survival as AS-3/SAGM packed red blood cells.

Main indications

Phenotyped packed red blood cells are used to:

• prevent alloimmunization; and
• provide compatible red blood cells for transfusion in patients with clinically significant antibodies.

Patients with clinically significant antibodies or with a history of clinically significant antibodies must receive red blood cells that are negative for the antigen in question.

For patients with rare erythrocytic phenotypes or with multiple antibodies, Héma-Québec will have to find appropriate erythrocytic units. If there are no readily available compatible units, Héma-Québec may have to:

• contact donors with specific phenotypes to plan a donation;
• access phenotyped red blood cells from its rare blood inventory available in a frozen state; or
• ask for help from international blood banks.

Contraindications

Contraindications are the same as for AS-3/SAGM packed red blood cells.

Dosage and administration

The dosage and administration are the same as those for AS-3/SAGM packed red blood cells.

The transfusion must be completed within four hours after the product leaves the controlled environment.

La transfusion doit être achevée dans les 4 heures suivant la sortie du produit de l’environnement contrôlé.

Storage

Phenotyped packed red blood cells taken from a sealed device must be kept between 1°C and 6°C. Under those conditions, the shelf life of the red blood cells is 42 days.

In the event of a discrepancy between the information on this page and what is in the Circular of information, the latter will take precedence.