Anomalous ABO inheritance explained by ovum transplantation.

BACKGROUND

Modern fertilization techniques can lead to unexpected ABO phenotypes in newborn infants and can raise questions as to maternity, paternity, and infant misidentification. Ovum transplantation can result in an infant with an ABO phenotype that is unexpected, given the birth mother's ABO type.

STUDY DESIGN AND

METHODS

A group AB, Rh-positive female infant was born to a group O, Rh-positive woman as a result of ovum transplantation. The case report is provided.

RESULTS

The birth mother typed group O, Rh-positive both before and after delivery. The infant typed group AB, Rh-positive on cord blood and heelstick specimens.

CONCLUSION

Ovum transplantation can result in newborns whose ABO phenotypes are unexpected, in relation to the birth mother's ABO type. To ensure patient privacy, such fertilization techniques may not be clearly documented in the delivery room chart. A complete obstetric history helps prevent repeat phlebotomies, expensive and unnecessary typing studies, and concern of the clinical staff with possible sample or infant misidentification.