The purpose of this course is to provide genetic counselors with the latest expert-led education about two relevant areas in the field of hematology. First, an overview of Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) will be presented, including the genetics of these antigens, inheritance patterns, and discussion on how to "read” HLA typing as may appear in a patient report. Second, current information related to Fetal/Neonatal Allo-Immune Thrombocytopenia (FNAIT) will be presented, with an explanation of HLA typing and other factors that may play a role in the condition, as well as discussion of differential diagnosis and recurrence risks.
Three (3) major learning objectives of the course are:
1. Describe the HLA antigens and alleles and the physical structure, tissue distribution and function of the genes and protein products of the three major classes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC).
2. Define key concepts inherent to the HLA system (polymorphism, codominant expression, linkage disequilibrium, antigen frequency, cross reactivity)
3. Identify the appropriate information needed to evaluate if a pregnancy is at risk for FNAIT or if future pregnancies are at risk for recurrence.
| Basics of the HLA System Karen Pierce, BS, CHS(ABHI) Technical Specialist, Histocompatibility Laboratory BloodCenter of Wisconsin | Fetal and Neonatal Allo-Immune Thrombocytopenia Janice McFarland, MD Medical Director, Platelet and Neutrophil Immunology Laboratory BloodCenter of Wisconsin |
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Ms. Pierce and Dr McFarland have no relevant financial disclosures. Dr McFarland will be discussing the off-label use of IVIG and prednisone.