Rhesus Phenotypes (D, C, c, E and e) Blood Group Distribution among Blood Donors in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Osime Evarista Odaburhine *
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria.
Adodo, Annabel
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Benson Idahosa University, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: The Rhesus (Rh) blood group system includes five clinically important antigens: D, C, c, E and e. Local donor antigen frequencies are relevant to transfusion compatibility planning. This study determined the distribution of these antigens among blood donors in Benin City, Edo State.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study included 1,000 voluntary and commercial blood donors recruited from hospitals, blood banks and mobile donation drives. Four millilitres of venous blood were collected from each donor. Rh antigens were identified serologically using monoclonal antisera and the tube method, with the indirect antiglobulin test employed to detect weak antigens. Demographic characteristics, transfusion history and awareness of Rhesus blood groups were assessed using structured questionnaires. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21 and summarised as frequencies and percentages.
Results: Rhc was detected in 950 donors (95%), RhD in 910 (91%), Rhe in 890 (89%), RhE in 250 (25%) and RhC in 100 (10%). Of the donors, 700 (70%) were male and 300 (30%) were female. Blood group O was the most frequent ABO group (61%). Overall, 510 donors (51%) reported knowing their Rhesus factor, while none reported awareness of the other Rhesus subtypes. Previous transfusion was reported by 50 donors (5%).
Conclusion: Rhc, RhD and Rhe predominated in this donor population. The findings provide local antigen-frequency data that may inform extended Rh typing and transfusion compatibility planning.
Keywords: Rhesus blood group system, RhD antigen, RhC antigen, Rhc antigen, RhE antigen, Rhe antigen, blood donors, Benin City, antigen distribution, transfusion compatibility