A retrospective analysis of the antigen-negative red blood cell supply conducted at a single centre in China.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to analyse the distribution and demand patterns of antigen-negative red blood cells (RBCs) in Shandong Province, China (2022-2024), with a focus on ABO blood groups and clinically significant antigens. The research was designed to provide rigorous data for advancing precision transfusion protocols and to establish a theoretical basis for optimising regional blood-sharing platforms and facilitating their expansion into a nationwide network. Furthermore, analysis of blood antigen distribution characteristics in broader populations was conducted to validate the feasibility of future expansion plans.

METHODS

Retrospective data from the Tangshan Qiao 9.5 Modern Blood Management System and clinical transfusion service software (2022-2024) were analysed using Excel 2010 and GraphPad Prism 10. The key metrics included ABO blood type proportions, demand intensity (the ratio of special crossmatched blood to total RBC units) and demographic trends.

RESULTS

Type B blood exhibited a 'double-high' pattern (42.76% absolute supply, 1.41% demand intensity), whereas type AB showed elevated demand intensity (1.08%) despite a low total volume supply (10.80%). The Rh (57.90%) and Kidd (22.84%) systems dominated the antigen-negative RBC distribution. Females (63.25%) and patients aged >50 years (65.73%) were the primary recipients, linked to pregnancy-related immune exposure and chronic comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

Routine testing for RhCcEe and Kidd antigens, dynamic inventory strategies for high-demand blood types and regional data-sharing platforms are critical for increasing transfusion safety. Multicentre collaboration and the adoption of international antigen-matching protocols are recommended to address China's ageing population and chronic disease burden.