Blood group genotyping in a multitrauma patient: a case report

Currently DNA-based analysis of blood groups is mainly used to improve transfusion safety by reducing alloantibody formation in multiply transfused patients and by monitoring pregnancies at risk for hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. We present a case in which genotyping was performed after massive transfusion with unmatched group O, D– blood in a trauma setting. Our patient was genotyped as O1A1and predicted to be D–, and we therefore transfused group A, D– red blood cell concentrates. This case demonstrates how the use of blood group genotyping in an acute setting can lead to a decrease in the unnecessary use of group O, D– blood products. Immunohematology2012;28:85–7.