Review: Effects of anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies on red blood cell transfusion and interventions

Background Highly expressed in almost all myeloma cells, CD38 is an attractive treatment target. Aim Anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies have been approved for first-line treatment in non-transplantable multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Materials and methods However, it has been found in clinical use that anti-CD38 monoclonal antibodies bind to CD38 on red blood cells (RBCs) and cause panagglutination in indirect antiglobulin test (IAT), resulting in false positives of IAT (Transfusion, 55, 2015 and 1545; Transfusion, 55, 2015 and 1555). Result Thereby, interfering with blood bank testing and leading to the delay of further diagnosis and treatment. Conclusion With more and more patients receiving anti-CD38 treatment, it is of great importance to recognize this problem and optimize relevant diagnosis and treatment procedures to prevent RBC transfusion delays and reduce laboratory costs.