Context.– Serological tests on automated immunology analyzers are increasingly used to monitor the acquired immunity against SARS-CoV-2. The heterogeneity of assays raises concerns about their diagnostic performance and comparability. Objective.– To test sera from formerly infected individuals for SARS-Cov-2 antibodies utilizing six automated serology assays and a pseudoneutralization test (PNT). Design.– Six SARS-CoV-2 serology assays were utilized to assess 954 samples collected during a 12 months period from 315 COVID-19 convalescents. The tests determined either antibodies against the viral nucleocapsid (anti-NC) or spike protein (anti-S). Two assays did not distinguish between antibody classes whereas the others selectively measured immunoglubulins G (IgG) antibodies. PNT was used to detect the presence of neutralizing antibodies. Results.– Comparison of qualitative results showed only slight to moderate concordance between the assays (Cohen's kappa < 0.57). Significant correlations (P < .001) were observed between the antibody titers from all quantitative assays. However, titer changes were not detected equally. A total anti-S assay measured an increase in 128 out of 172 cases (74%) of a suitable subset, whereas all IgG anti-S tests reported decreases in at least 118 (69%). Regarding the PNT results, diagnostic sensitivities ≥89% were achieved with PPVs ≥93%. In contrast, specificity changed substantially over time varying from 20 to 100%. Conclusions.– Comparability of serological SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests is rather poor. Due to different diagnostic specificities, the tested assays were not equally capable of capturing changes in antibody titers. However, with thoroughly validated cut-offs, IgG-selective anti-S assays are a reliable surrogate test for SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies in former COVID-19 patients.
<b><i>Background:</i></b> The development of allo-anti-Rh17 (anti-Hr0) in a –D– phenotype whose red blood cells (RBCs) lack CcEe antigens is most likely triggered by transfusion, transplantation, or pregnancy. Gene conversion is the predominating factor in generating RHD-CE-D and RHCE-D-CE hybrids like –D–. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We report here immunohematological and obstetrical data from 2 of the 5 pregnancies of a 24-year-old woman presenting with the –D– phenotype with anti-Rh17. Blood group typing, antibody screening, antibody differentiation, direct antiglobulin test (DAT), and antibody titers were performed by routine gel technology and tube testing. Additionally, molecular genetic analysis was performed. Fetal surveillance was done by sonographic evaluation of the fetal middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA-PSV). <b><i>Results:</i></b> Blood group typing showed O, C-c-D+E-e- and the DAT was negative. DNA sequencing revealed homozygosity for an <i>RHCE-D(3–9)-CE</i> null allele. Anti-Rh17 titers in the fourth pregnancy remained between 1:8 and 1:128, and no signs for a fetal anemia were observed. However, in the fifth pregnancy, the antibody titers increased up to 1:4,096. Signs of moderate fetal anemia were detected and cesarean section was performed at 34 + 6 weeks of gestation. The newborn presented with hemolytic anemia (cord blood hemoglobin [Hb] = 8.5 mg/dL). She received 2 compatible (small) packed RBC concentrates, phototherapy, and intravenous immunoglobulins. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Our case shows that the risk for hemolytic complications increases with the number of pregnancies of sensitized women. Only people who also lack CcEe antigens are compatible as donors. The role of such rare donors as lifesavers, their freedom, and voluntariness conflict with the urgent need for compatible blood.
<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Regular whole blood donors often suffer from iron deficiency (ID) or iron deficiency anemia due to the loss of 200–300 mg of iron with each donation. Hemoglobin (Hb) as donor eligibility criterion reflects iron stores only poorly. ID in blood donors is typically prevented or treated with orally administered ferrous salts, which frequently cause gastrointestinal side effects. A high daily oral iron dose is counterproductive due to hepcidin upregulation. Oral sucrosomial iron (<sub>sucr</sub>iron) is encapsulated ferric pyrophosphate that may be an option for blood donors due to its supposed high bioavailability and good tolerability. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> This monocentric single-cohort pilot study included fifty whole blood donors (divided into premenopausal women, postmenopausal women, and men) who did not meet Hb donation criteria. Participants aged 18–65 years with ferritin <30 ng/mL and venous Hb <12.5 g/dL in women and Hb <13.5 g/dL in men received oral <sub>sucr</sub>iron (30 mg iron) for 90–120 days. Primary endpoints were the increase of Hb and ferritin. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Forty-seven participants completed the study. With the limitation that no control group was included, there was a substantial overall median increase of 0.94 g/dL Hb and 4.97 ng/mL ferritin (standardized on 90 days of iron intake). These value improvements were likewise observed in each of the subgroups. <sub>sucr</sub>iron was very well tolerated, with almost no gastrointestinal side effects identified. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> A clear increase of Hb and ferritin was observed after the intake of <sub>sucr</sub>iron, so it may be a reasonable and useful alternative to traditional oral iron therapy. The ease of administration, pleasant taste, dietary supplement status, and, most importantly, good tolerability highlight the value of <sub>sucr</sub>iron supplementation.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.