Occasionally a patient will present with anti-HLA antibodies without a
hx of sensitizing events, such as transfusion, pregnancy, etc. This
is particularly puzzling in very young children and infants. One
possible explanation involves molecular mimicry, (which may explain
anti-ABO and other antibodies).
A second explanation might involve maternal lymphocytes crossing the
placenta to fetal circulation.
I have been informed that there has been some discussion of this
phenomenon, some months back, on this or other transplant-related
forums. I would be interested in any published or unpublished data
that anyone might offer, specifically relating to maternal lymphocytes
in fetal circulation as a sensitizing agent. Any help or information
would be most appreciated !
Sandra L. Nehlsen-Cannarella, PhD
Immunology Center
Loma Linda University Medical Center Loma Linda, CA 92354
voice: (909) 824-4144
fax: (909) 478-4144
email:
slcannarella@ccmail.llumc.edu
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