In a rare and complex Cross Blood Transplant a 30-year-old woman with the extremely rare ‘Bombay’ (hh) blood group underwent a successful kidney transplant in India.

About Cross Blood Transplant

• Definition: A cross-blood transplant involves transplanting an organ from a donor with an incompatible blood group to a recipient.
• Challenges: Such transplants require specialized desensitization protocols to prevent rejection.
• Techniques Used: Plasma exchange therapy and immunosuppressive treatments help lower antibody levels and improve graft acceptance.

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Exceptional Cross Transplant and Its Significance

• India’s First Bombay Blood Group Kidney Transplant: The successful kidney transplant took place at Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai.
• Medical Complexity:
  • The patient initially misdiagnosed as O blood group was later identified as Bombay blood group (hh).
  • Since Bombay blood group patients cannot receive organs from common donors, the mother (a B-positive donor) stepped forward.
  • Advanced immunological protocols were used to modify the immune response before transplantation.
• Key Solutions in the Transplant:
  • Specialized pre-transplant desensitization protocols were implemented.
  • Rare blood donor registries were used to secure compatible blood products.
  • A multidisciplinary medical team managed immunological and surgical risks.
• Significance:
  • First such recorded case in India and one of the few worldwide.
  • Highlights the importance of accurate blood typing in organ transplantation.
  • Demonstrates how medical advancements can overcome complex immunological barriers.

This groundbreaking transplant marks a major medical milestone, showcasing the potential of precision medicine and advanced immunotherapy in overcoming rare transplant challenges.

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