Anatomy of Hematologic System Related

Review Anatomy of Hematologic System related questions and content

A 14-year-old male patient is diagnosed with very high risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia and is likely going to require an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant to cure his leukemia. Prior to going to transplant, he is likely to require multiple blood transfusions. Which of the following products or component modifications is the best way to prevent him from developing alloimmunization due to anti-HLA antibodies prior to transplant?

  • A. Frozen RBCs
  • B. Volume-reduced blood products
  • C. Irradiation of all blood products
  • D. Leukoreduced blood products
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Leukoreduced blood products. Leukoreduction removes white blood cells from the blood product, reducing the risk of alloimmunization due to anti-HLA antibodies. White blood cells are a major source of HLA antigens that can stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. This process helps prevent the development of alloimmunization, which is crucial for patients undergoing stem cell transplant.

A: Frozen RBCs - Freezing does not affect the risk of alloimmunization.
B: Volume-reduced blood products - Volume reduction does not specifically target white blood cells or HLA antigens.
C: Irradiation of all blood products - Irradiation is used to prevent graft-versus-host disease, not specifically to prevent alloimmunization.