Survey of platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and HLA class 1 antibodies in a cross section of Nigerian multiparous women

Abstract

Aims: The frequencies of alloantibodies to platelet glycoproteins and HLA class 1 have not been reported in this part of the world. To determine the prevalence of these antibodies in Nigeria. Methods: The sera of 100 multiparous women were tested for antibodies to HPA and HLA class 1 antigens using GTI PakPlus solid phase ELISA Kit in a cross sectional study. Results: The prevalence of platelet glycoproteins specific antibodies was obtained as follows: GP IIb/IIIa (10%), GP Ia/IIa (48%), GP IV (8%) and GP Ib/IX (12%). Further analysis revealed the prevalence of each platelet antibody subgroup as follows: anti-HPA-1a,-3a,-4a (0%), anti-HP-1b,-3a,-4a (10%), anti-HPA-5a (18%), anti-HPA-5b (30%). HLA class 1 antibody was prevalent in 22% cases. The production of these antibodies was parity dependent. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of anti-HPA-5b and anti-HLA class 1 in our female population which can pose potential threat to our blood donor pool.