Quantitative MAIPA: Comparison of different MAIPA protocols.

Background: In a screening setting, maternal anti-HPA 1a antibody level has been found to be a good prognostic tool to identify newborns at risk for severe NAIT.

Objective: Identify the optimal MAIPA protocol for quantitation of anti-HPA 1a antibodies.

Methods: Plasma were analysed for anti-HPA 1a antibodies using different monoclonal antibodies, lyophilized or fresh platelets and MAIPA protocols.

Results: The anti-HPA 1a antibody level varied significantly when different monoclonal antibodies were used. However, there was a strong correlation between maternal anti-HPA 1a antibody level and platelet count in the newborn. The sensitivity of the assay depended on the adopted MAIPA protocol.

Conclusions: Consistent tests results are of importance for the clinical impact of the test.