The first case of congenital blood chimerism in two of the triplets in Korea

J Clin Lab Anal. 2018 Oct;32(8):e22580. doi: 10.1002/jcla.22580. Epub 2018 May 24.

Abstract

Background: Chimeras are composed of two or more different populations that originated from different zygotes. Blood chimerism arising from twins have been reported in the literature. Herein, we report the first blood group chimerism in triplets.

Methods: ABO blood grouping was carried out by manual tile methods (Merck Millipore, UK) and micro-column agglutination method (Bio-Rad, Cressier sur Morat, Switzerland). Flow cytometric analysis was performed with Anti-A-PE conjugated monoclonal antibodies (BD Biosciences, San Jose, CA, USA) and FACS Canto II (BD Biosciences). Molecular analysis was performed with allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) and direct sequencing of the exons 6 and 7.

Results: Mixed-field agglutination and weak agglutination against anti-A were revealed by ABO blood grouping. Flow cytometric analysis revealed the presence of both A cells and O cells. AS-PCR and sequencing showed two neonates with chimerism, with each neonate`s genotype being A102/O01/O02.

Conclusion: This is the first recorded case of blood chimera from a triplet in Korea. We recommend full investigation of blood group chimerism in neonates with ABO discrepancy, as blood chimerism is subject to certain caution in the clinical environment.

Keywords: allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR); blood chimerism; direct sequencing; flow cytometric analysis; triplets.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • ABO Blood-Group System / genetics*
  • Chimerism*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
  • Pedigree
  • Republic of Korea
  • Triplets / genetics*

Substances

  • ABO Blood-Group System