Naturally Occurring Anti-Jka: Expanding the Evidence beyond Sensitization.

INTRODUCTION

Red blood cell (RBC) alloantibodies typically develop following immune sensitization through transfusion or pregnancy. Naturally occurring antibodies, in contrast, arise without such exposure and are often directed against antigens such as ABO or Lewis. Kidd system antibodies are clinically significant, usually IgG, and rarely occur naturally.

METHODS

Routine pretransfusion testing was performed using automated hemagglutination (Echo® Lumena, Werfen; Norcross, GA, USA) and manual tube methods for ABO and RhD typing. Antibody screening utilized a standard three-cell panel and extended testing by solid-phase red cell adherence (SPRCA). Phenotyping was conducted manually using monoclonal anti-Jka and anti-Jkb. Comparative testing employed the indirect antiglobulin test (IAT) in tube with polyethylene glycol (PEG) enhancement.

RESULTS

Two patients were encountered with anti-Jka by SPRCA despite no history of transfusion, pregnancy, or immunoglobulin therapy. Both exhibited a Jk(a-, b+) phenotype. Reactivity consistent with anti-Jka and dosage effect was observed in SPRCA testing, while IAT with PEG enhancement failed to detect the antibody. Auto control and direct antiglobulin tests were negative, and no additional clinically significant antibodies were identified.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide further evidence that anti-Jka can arise naturally, independent of sensitizing events. Detection was possible through solid-phase testing, highlighting its ability to identify weak or developing antibodies that may be missed by conventional tube methods. Awareness of such naturally occurring Kidd antibodies is essential to ensure appropriate antibody identification and selection of compatible blood for transfusion.