We are currently transfusing ABO compatible cryoprecipitate only. I am aware of a few facilities that only use group A cryo and are transfusing group A to their group B and AB patients. AABB technical manual states, "Because CRYO contains ABO antibodies, consideration should be given to ABO compatibility when the infused volume will be large relative to the recipient's red cell mass." I am looking for additional information, references, experience others have had. Thanks for your help.

Our standard dose of cryo is 8 pooled units. Our consideration for ABO type is that our manual states that "we should use ABO compatible cryo, when possible". We have never had an issue using incompatible cryo. Probably due to the small volume, @100ml.

We don't worry about ABO for Cryo except for the little patients (babies, etc.).

Our standard pool is 5. Standard dose is 1 or 2 pools of 5.

LF

Same here.

Does anyone have additional references to back this practice? I need additional information for my Transfusion Committee. Thank you.

In addition to Technical Manual, please also see

Blood Transfusion Therapy - A Physician's Handbook says

ABO-compatible cryoprecipitate is not required, because of the small amount of plasma, although this volume of plasma may be clinically significant in infnats. In rare instances, infusion of large numbers of ABO-incompatible units of cryoprecipitated AHF can cause hemolysis; a positive DAT can be seen with infusion of smaller doses.

Pediatric Transfusion - A Physician's Handbook says

Because of its small volume, cryoprecipitate does not have to be ABO compatible with the recipient. However, in high-volume transfusions, ABO-incompatible cryoprecipitate may be result in a positive DAT and a risk of hemolysis caused by passive transfer of ABO antibodies. Neonates should be given only ABO-compatible cryoprecipitae because of their small blood volume.

Hope this helps.

CK Cheng, MSc, SBB(ASCP), CQA(ASQ)

Dec 2008