Name of the Procedure:

Antibody Screen, RBC, Each Serum Technique

Summary

An antibody screen (or indirect Coombs test) is a blood test used to detect antibodies against red blood cells (RBCs). These antibodies can develop due to blood transfusions, certain medications, pregnancy, or autoimmune conditions. The test identifies any potential incompatible antibodies in the patient's blood serum.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the antibody screen is to identify any antibodies that may react with RBCs, which is critical before blood transfusions or during pregnancy. The test ensures that any blood given during a transfusion will be compatible, preventing harmful reactions. In pregnant women, it helps monitor for antibodies that could affect the fetus.

Indications

• Prior to a blood transfusion
• During pregnancy (especially in Rh-negative women)
• Patients with a history of transfusions or pregnancies
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia concerns
• Blood donors

Preparation

• No fasting required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medications or supplements they are taking.
• A simple blood draw is performed; no additional diagnostic tests are required beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. Blood Sample Collection: A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically from the arm.
2. Laboratory Processing: The sample is taken to a laboratory, where the serum (the liquid part of the blood) is separated.
3. Mixing: The serum is mixed with a panel of red cells that have known antigens.
4. Incubation: The mixture is incubated to allow any antibodies present in the serum to react with the antigens on the red cells.
5. Observation: The samples are observed for agglutination (clumping) or other reactions, indicating the presence of antibodies.

Duration

The entire process typically takes a few hours from sample collection to result interpretation.

Setting

The blood sample is collected in a clinic, doctor's office, or hospital. The actual antibody screening is performed in a laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse for blood sample collection
• Laboratory technician or technologist to conduct the test
• Pathologist or hematologist may interpret the results

Risks and Complications

• Common: Slight pain or bruising at the blood draw site.
• Rare: Infection or excessive bleeding at the puncture site.
• False positives or negatives can occasionally occur, requiring further testing.

Benefits

• Ensures safe blood transfusions by detecting incompatible antibodies.
• Protects unborn babies from hemolytic disease.
• Helps diagnose autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
• Follow-up appointment may be required to discuss results.

Alternatives

• Direct Coombs test (used for detecting antibodies attached to the patient's red cells in vivo)
• Extended antibody panels or more specific serological tests as needed.
• These alternatives might provide more specific information but can be more costly or require longer processing times.

Patient Experience

• Patients may experience a pinch or sting during the blood draw.
• Mild discomfort or bruising at the site may occur but typically resolves quickly.
• The test itself is painless, and results usually are available within a day or two.