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Prevalence of Rhesus Antibodies (Anti-C, -D, -E) Among Pregnant Women Attending The Clinic at Primary Health Center in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria
Abstract
Introduction: Rhesus (Rh) alloimmunization remains a significant concern in obstetric care due to its association with hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn. This study investigated the prevalence of Rhesus antibodies (Anti-c, Anti-d, and Anti-e) among pregnant women attending the Primary Health Center in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria, with emphasis on age and gestational variations.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was adopted involving 100 pregnant women recruited from the Primary Health Center, Ekpoma. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained prior to sample collection. Five milliliters (5 mL) of venous blood was collected from each participant, and serum was separated and stored at −20°C. Detection of Rhesus antibodies (Anti-c, Anti-d, Anti-e) was carried out using the indirect antiglobulin test (IAT). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21, with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05.
Results: The findings revealed a low prevalence of Rhesus antibodies among the study population, with 92% testing negative for all antibodies. Anti-c was detected in 2% of participants, while Anti-d and Anti-e were each observed in 3% of the population. Age distribution showed higher antibody occurrence among women aged 20–29 years, particularly with one case each of Anti-c, Anti-d, and Anti-e in the 20–24 age group, and two cases of Anti-d in the 25–29 group. Trimester analysis indicated increased antibody detection in the third trimester, with three cases of Anti-d and one case each of Anti-c and Anti-e. The first and second trimesters showed fewer antibody cases.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates a low prevalence of Rhesus antibodies among pregnant women in Ekpoma, suggesting a reduced risk of alloimmunization. However, the presence of antibodies in later trimesters and among younger women highlights the need for continuous antenatal screening to prevent potential maternal and fetal complications.
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