Early and fatal immune haemolysis after so-called ‘minor’ ABO-incompatible peripheral blood stem cell allotransplantation

Abstract

A 38-year-old man, blood group A+, was allotransplanted for multiple myeloma from his fully matched sister, blood group O+. Anti-A antibodies IgG and IgM titres of the donor were low. Allogeneic peripheral blood stem cells were harvested by leukapheresis after subcutaneous administration of G-CSF. Rapid engraftment occurred since 5.6 × 10⁹/l leukocytes were achieved on day +9 post-transplant. At this time a severe immune haemolytic syndrome occurred and direct antiglobulin test was positive (IgG and C3d). Elution showed an anti-A specificity. Evolution was rapidly unfavourable related to multiorgan failure. The patient died on day +20 post-transplant.