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Turnaround Time
1 - 2 days
Use
Detect atypical IgG antibodies prior to transfusion or during pregnancy. The technique is designed specifically to detect IgG antibodies, though on occasion, some IgM antibodies may also be detected. Antibodies detected by the antibody screen will be subsequently identified, and a titer performed if the antibody identified is considered to be clinically significant during pregnancy.
Test Includes
Red cell antibody screening. Note: Identification of antibody(ies) and titer of clinically significant antibody(ies) will be automatically performed at an additional charge if the antibody screen is positive.
Limitations
No antibody screening test will detect all antibodies. This method may not detect IgM antibodies or antibodies to low frequency antigens. Extremely low-titered antibodies may be detected but may be too weak to identify.
Methodology
Antiglobulin test
References
Fung MK, Grossman JB, Hillyer CD, Westoff CM, eds. AABB Technical Manual. 18th ed. Bethesda, Md: American Association of Blood Banks;2014.
Specimen Requirements
Information on collection, storage, and volume
Specimen
Whole blood (Note: This should not be a shared specimen. If antibody identification is necessary, the entire volume of this lavender-top tube will be required.)
Volume
4 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL (Note: This minimum amount will not allow for antibody identification if the antibody screen is positive.)
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Storage Instructions
Specimens should be tested as soon as possible or within 72 hours of collection. Samples that cannot be tested immediately should be stored at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze red cells.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; bacterial or other contamination