Blood Bank Guy Essentials Podcast 066: IgA Deficiency and Anaphylactic Reactions with Jerry Sandler
Apr 10, 2019
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Jerry Sandler, a Professor of Pathology at Georgetown University and a transfusion medicine expert, reveals surprising insights into IgA deficiency and its link to anaphylactic transfusion reactions. He emphasizes the rarity of true anaphylaxis in individuals with IgA deficiency and challenges long-held beliefs in the medical community. The conversation also highlights the importance of mentorship and the need for safe transfusion practices, particularly around effective products like Octoplas for patients with anaphylactic histories.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Anaphylaxis After Transfusion Is Rare
- True anaphylactic transfusion reactions are much rarer than commonly believed.
- Most reported cases do not show IgA deficiency with anti-IgA when properly tested.
Mechanism Differs From Classic IgE Anaphylaxis
- Classic allergy/anaphylaxis is IgE-mediated; the anti-IgA hemagglutination assay likely measures a different antibody class.
- Therefore IgE-driven mechanisms common to bee stings/penicillin are not demonstrated in many transfusion 'anaphylaxis' reports.
Red Cross National Lab Experience
- Jerry Sandler described his role at the American Red Cross National Reference Laboratory starting in 1978.
- He oversaw testing for IgA deficiency and anti-IgA using passive hemagglutination assays and supplied IgA-deficient plasma.