Lecture 10: NHSBT & Blood Components Flashcards
What is Landsteiner’s Law?
Individuals lack antibodies against their own ABO antigens but produce anti-A/B against missing antigens (e.g., Type A has anti-B).
Which blood group system is most clinically significant after ABO?
Rh (D) – 85% of the UK population is Rh+. Anti-D can cause HDN or transfusion reactions.
What are the donor eligibility criteria in the UK?
Age: ≥17 years (no upper limit).
Frequency: Every 12 weeks (men) / 16 weeks (women).
Hb: ≥125 g/L (women), ≥135 g/L (men).
Why is CPD used in blood bags?
Citrate Phosphate Dextrose anticoagulates blood and preserves RBCs during storage.
What is apheresis?
Machine separates specific components (e.g., platelets) and returns remaining blood to the donor.
Why are platelets agitated during storage?
Prevents clumping and maintains function.
What mandatory tests are performed on donations?
Serology: ABO/RhD, antibody screening.
Microbiology: HIV, HBV, HCV, syphilis, HTLV, HEV.
NAT (Nucleic Acid Testing): Detects viral RNA/DNA early.
What is leucodepletion?
Removal of WBCs to reduce febrile reactions, HLA alloimmunization, and pathogen transmission.
When is irradiated blood required?
For immunocompromised patients (e.g., leukemia, stem cell transplant) to prevent TA-GVHD.
What is the role of NHSBT?
Collects 1.7M donations/year, provides 7,000 units/day, and manages organ/tissue services.
How are platelets typically sourced in the UK?
80% by apheresis (1 donor → 2–3 doses) vs. pooled (4 donors → 1 dose).
What is the cost of 1 unit of red cells?
£133.44 (2018 data).
