KARACHI, Sept 27: Haematologists have strongly recommended necessary modifications in safe blood transfusion modalities adopted in Pakistan, mainly focussed on viral safety, but with little consideration towards immunological safety of blood and its components.

Speaking at the inaugural session of a two-day advanced workshop on “Immuno-Haematology”, on Tuesday, experts stressed that blood bank technicians and haematologists should be well versed in detecting any immunological mismatch between blood donors and the recipients.

Compatibility procedures in blood transfusion laboratories when ignored cause severe, and at times, even fatal consequences, Dr Tahir Shamsi of the Bismillah Taqee Institute of Blood Diseases said, referring to sensitivity during pregnancy and haemolytic diseases in newborns.

Explaining the problem, he said when the foetus carried RHD positive and the mother’s RHD was negative, there were all chances that the mother might develop anti-bodies that could destroy the foetus.

Speakers including Dr Mohsin Anvery, Dr Baty Ayob, Dr M Irfan and Col Farhat Bhatti reiterated the need for stringent measures to ensure “Standardized Care”.

Dr Farhana Memon, Programme Manager of the Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority, said the authority was open to experts’ opinion and suggestions, and all relevant proposals would be incorporated.

“The programme will contribute to enhancing the capacities of technicians and other relevant professionals associated with government owned blood banks,” he said.

The workshop is being attended by 30 haematologists and senior blood bank technicians from various public and private sector institutions across the country.—APP