Relevance of HLA Matched Platelets

Use HLA matched platelets for patients awaiting HSCT is relevant to avoid further sensitisation if already sensitised or to avoid sensitisation if not. This is particularly important where a mismatched transplant such as a 11/12, a haplo or a cord blood unit is being used. Where a mismatched unit is being used, platelets should be selected to avoid mismatched antigens, reducing the risk of the patient becoming sensitised to this mismatch.

Relevance of HPA Antibodies

HPA antibodies have been known to cause delayed engraftment, especially of platelets. If a choice of donors is presented it may be possible to HPA type the donors. Donors who do not express the antigen to which the patient is sensitised should be selected if possible.