Antigens cause transfusion reactions
Dear Dr. Roach: I had two blood transfusions in 2012 during an almost yearlong bout with an out of control infection that ended up in a fused knee. In a recent antibody screen, I was identified as having antijkb. The information on this that I was able to find on the internet was incomprehensible to me. In simple terms, what does this mean? Am I able to donate blood? Can I receive donated blood?
S.L.
Answer: There are many blood antigens that can cause transfusion reactions. “Antigen” is a term for a substance than can provoke an immune response. One of the families of antigens that may cause a transfusion reaction is called the Kidd blood group system.
Antibodies to these antigens can cause transfused blood to be destroyed. The transfusion reaction in this case is typically delayed, not immediate. For this reason, it would be worthwhile for people with anti-Kidd antibodies to wear a medical alert bracelet in case of emergency transfusion need. People with anti-jk antibodies may still donate blood, but the blood bank must give this blood only to people who lack the antigen.
Dear Dr. Roach: I am a healthy 65-year-old male. I had hepatitis B as a teenager. I then had hepatitis C, which was treated and now has been non-detected for five years.
Will I ever be able to give blood? Before being treated for hepatitis C, doctors told me to stay away from shellfish, especially raw oysters. Is it OK to eat them now? My liver functions are normal.
D.B.
Answer: Most blood banks, such as the American Red Cross, do not accept blood donations from anyone with any history of hepatitis C, even those who are apparently cured.
Raw oysters, and some other raw shellfish, may carry bacteria called vibrio vulnificus. This species is a problem in people with liver disease.
Check with your doctor. If you have no liver disease now, and normal lab tests are a hopeful sign, you might be able to eat them, though it would be safest not to.
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