Fluorescence in situ hybridization and chromosome studies after transfusion in newborns: is a waiting period necessary?
BACKGROUND
Delaying chromosome studies after transfusion is common practice in many neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Yet, no evidence exists to support this practice.


OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effects of filtration and irradiation on chromosome detection, and to evaluate donor chromosome interference after transfusion.


METHODS
Packed red blood cells (PRBCs) were evaluated by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and chromosome analyses. To evaluate donor leukocyte survival, blood was collected from female neonates who received male-donated PRBCs.


RESULTS
Irradiated, leukodepleted blood had no Y chromosome detection by FISH. Irradiated, microaggregate filtered blood had Y chromosome detection in all samples by FISH but no metaphase growth. No donor chromosomes were detected in neonates after transfusion.


CONCLUSIONS
Delaying chromosome or FISH analysis in transfused neonates who have received irradiated blood is unnecessary.
Fynn
Jennifer
J
Advocate Lutheran General Children's Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Park Ridge, Illinois, USA.
Komotos
Violeta
V
Rita
Debra
D
Benawra
Raghbir
R
Schweig
Lorene
L
Angst
Denise
D
Puppala
Bhagya
B
D041321:Chromosomes, Human, X / Q000235:genetics; D041322:Chromosomes, Human, Y / Q000235:genetics; D017707:Erythrocyte Transfusion; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000166:cytology; D005260:Female; D006085:Graft Survival; D006801:Humans; D017403:In Situ Hybridization / Q000379:methods; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007621:Karyotyping / Q000379:methods; D047589:Leukocyte Reduction Procedures / Q000379:methods; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000166:cytology; D008297:Male