Useful For

Antibody screening is performed to determine the presence of antibodies present in the patient serum directed against antigens on the test cells. Usually this is performed prior to transfusion therapy to prevent the destruction of transfused donor cells by antibody present in the serum of the recipient. Antibody screening is also useful in evaluating pregnant women for the possible occurrence of hemolytic disease of the newborn. The usual mechanism for production of antibody is the introduction of a foreign antigen (usually by previous transfusion or pregnancy). After processing, immunoglobulin (antibody) is released into the circulation by the B cells. This is known as a primary immune response. Subsequent contact with antigens produces a secondary immune response in which cells are marked for destruction by complement. Notes: 1) See also Type & Screen and Type & Crossmatch 2) If the antibody screen is positive, the antibody identification test(s) will be added and performed by the Blood Bank Department.