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Test Code LAB941 Antibody Identification, Blood

Useful For

Assessing positive pretransfusion antibody screens, transfusion reactions, hemolytic disease of the newborn, and autoimmune hemolytic anemias

Methodology

Capture solid phase automation and manual blood banking methods 

Performing Laboratory

Bozeman Health Laboratory Services

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Whole blood

Container/Tube: Pink top preferred (K2 EDTA),  or Purple top (EDTA)

Specimen Volume: 6 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Do not centrifuge. Forward unprocessed whole blood promptly.

2. If there is a delay in transport of ≥6 hours, spin down, transfer plasma or serum to a plastic vial, and send plasma or serum and RBCs refrigerated.

Specimen Rejection: Gel tube

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient <24 hours/Refrigerated >24 hours

Specimen Stability

 

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Whole Blood EDTA Ambient 24 hours
  Refrigerated 4 days

 

Reference Values

Negative

 

If positive, antibodies will be identified. 

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

86850-Antibody screen

86870-Antibody identification

Additional Information

The antibody identification can usually be completed in a matter of hours, but occasionally a reference laboratory consultation is necessary. Prenatal specimens, when appropriate, will have an antibody titer performed at an additional charge. Depending on results, antigen screen and direct Coombs testing may also be performed at an additional charge. Consultation with a reference laboratory may also be needed. If these additional tests are not desired, the ordering physician/provider must indicate “No reflex test is desired” on request form.