Antibody to human leukocyte antigens (HLA), solid phase assays (eg, microspheres or beads, ELISA, flow cytometry); qualitative assessment of the presence or absence of antibody(ies) to HLA Class I and Class II HLA antigens
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Antibody to Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) Testing
Common Names: HLA Antibody Testing, HLA Screening
Technical Terms: Solid Phase Assays, Microspheres, Beads Assays, ELISA, Flow Cytometry
Summary
HLA Antibody Testing is a laboratory procedure used to detect the presence or absence of antibodies against human leukocyte antigens (HLA). HLAs are proteins found on the surface of most cells in the body and play a critical role in the immune system's ability to distinguish between self and non-self. This test is usually performed using technologies like microspheres or beads, ELISA, or flow cytometry.
Purpose
This procedure is primarily used to evaluate whether a person has developed antibodies to HLA Class I and Class II antigens. It is commonly used in the context of organ transplantation to assess compatibility between donor and recipient, preventing graft rejection. The expected outcome is to ensure the safe and effective matching of donors and recipients in transplant cases, improving the success rates of organ transplants.
Indications
- Patients awaiting organ or tissue transplantation.
- Individuals with a history of multiple blood transfusions.
- Patients with autoimmune diseases.
- Monitoring sensitization status in transplant candidates.
Preparation
- No specific fasting or medication adjustments are typically required.
- A blood sample will be collected, so make sure to stay hydrated.
- Inform your healthcare provider of any existing medical conditions or medications you are taking.
Procedure Description
- A blood sample is drawn from the patient.
- The sample is processed in the laboratory.
- Solid phase assays like microspheres or beads, ELISA, or flow cytometry techniques are used to detect HLA antibodies.
The presence or absence of these antibodies is then reported.
- Tools/Equipment: Microspheres/Beads, ELISA kits, Flow cytometers.
No anesthesia or sedation is required as it is a simple blood draw.
Duration
The blood draw itself takes only a few minutes. However, processing and analyzing the results in the lab can take a few days to a week.
Setting
The blood draw is usually performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic. The analysis is done in a specialized laboratory.
Personnel
- Phlebotomists or nurses for the blood draw.
- Laboratory technicians and medical technologists for the analysis.
- Pathologists or medical doctors to interpret the results.
Risks and Complications
- Common: Minor pain or bruising at the site of the blood draw.
- Rare: Infection at the puncture site or hematoma.
Benefits
- This test helps ensure better matching for organ transplantation, thus reducing the risk of organ rejection.
- Facilitates the identification of potential autoimmune disease activity.
Recovery
- Post-procedure care consists of monitoring the puncture site for signs of infection or excessive bruising.
- Recovery from the blood draw is immediate with no restrictions.
Alternatives
- Other types of antibody screening tests (though solid phase assays like ELISA and flow cytometry are the gold standard).
Serological cross-matching tests.
Each alternative has its pros and cons, mainly concerning accuracy, specificity, and cost.
Patient Experience
- During the blood draw, you might feel a brief sting or pinch.
- Post-procedure, you might experience minor discomfort or bruising at the draw site.
- No significant pain is typically associated with the overall testing process.