Kell blood group antigen in Port Harcourt, Nigeria-a pilot study

Abstract

Background:  Kell antigens are targets for autoimmune or alloimmune diseases which destroy red blood cells.  Some of the antigens show racial prevalence.

Aim:  The study was done to ascertain the prevalence of Kell antigen amongst patients population seeking care in our hospital.

Methods:  In this study, 200 adult Nigerians including pregnant women resident in the Port Harcourt area of South South Nigeria were randomly selected for Kell (K) typing. Saline and enhanced testing methods (albumin and indirect Antiglobulin tests) according to Dacie   and   Lewis   were   used  for  this  typing.

Results:  The prevalence of  Kell (K) antigen in this pilot study was  2.0% while the Kell (K) negativity was 98%.  The ethnic groupings of the subjects showed that some of the Ijaw and Edo tribes were Kell positives (2 each).

Conclusion: The Kell blood group system is important and should be considered in blood transfusion practice in this environment.    The data emanating from this study could be utilized in the planning and running of an efficient blood transfusion service and better management of our maternal and child unit.

Keywords: Kell antigen, Blood transfusion, Port Harcourt,  Nigeria