Prevalence of Ethnic Neutropenia and Duffy Null Phenotype in Neonates

Kaplan Medical Center

Status: Enrolling

Conditions: Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cell Count)

Treatments: Diagnostic Test: Cord blood

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06908616

KMC-24-0090 (Other Identifier)

Details and patient eligibility

About

This is a prospective observational study designed to assess the prevalence of the Duffy null phenotype (associated with ethnic neutropenia) in neonates born at Kaplan Medical Center. Blood samples will be collected from umbilical cords (non-invasively) to evaluate Duffy antigen expression. Data on ethnicity, perinatal factors, and routine blood counts at 9-12 months (when available) will also be collected to correlate phenotype with absolute neutrophil count (ANC).

Full description

This is a prospective, observational cohort study designed to evaluate the prevalence of the Duffy null phenotype (Fya-/Fyb-) and its association with ethnic neutropenia in neonates born at Kaplan Medical Center in Israel. The Duffy null phenotype has been linked to lower peripheral neutrophil counts without increased infection risk in certain ethnic groups, a condition commonly referred to as benign ethnic neutropenia.

Cord blood samples will be collected from approximately 1,000 neonates during routine G6PD testing. An additional 3 mL will be obtained non-invasively from the umbilical cord after labour to determine the expression of Duffy antigens using serologic gel testing. Parental consent will be obtained, and information regarding ethnicity and family history of neutropenia will be collected.

Participants identified with the Duffy null phenotype will be followed through electronic health records to assess their neutrophil counts during routine blood screening at 9-12 months of age. The study will analyze associations between Duffy phenotype, neutropenia prevalence, and parental ethnic origin.

Findings may support improved diagnostic clarity around neonatal neutropenia and help reduce unnecessary interventions in otherwise healthy infants with genetically determined low neutrophil counts.

Enrollment: 1,000 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 1 minute to 1 day old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Neonates born at Kaplan Medical Center between 1.9.2024 and 31.12.2025
• Parental informed consent obtained
• Umbilical cord blood available for routine testing

Exclusion criteria

• None

Trial design

1,000 participants in 1 patient group

Neonatal birth cohort

Description:

Neonates born at Kaplan Medical Center whose cord blood is tested for Duffy antigen status and complete blood count. Follow-up neutrophil data is collected at 9-12 months if available.

Treatment:

Diagnostic Test: Cord blood