How anti-c in a D– patient prompted lifesaving work between a transfusion service and a blood center reference laboratory

This case report showcases an extraordinary collaboration to support the transfusion needs of a patient with a rare phenotype and long-standing anemia due to gastrointestinal bleeding. This report describes the Immunohematology Reference Laboratory testing and logistics of rare blood provision over an 11-year period, as well as a summary of the hematologic, gastroenterologic, and surgical interventions. This case illustrates how a strong collaboration among the clinical team, laboratory, blood center, and the rare donor community facilitated successful management of this patient’s anemia until the patient could receive life-changing treatment.