Antibody Screen

Casandra

Casandra Test Code LC28840Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab LabcorpLab Test ID 006015CPT Code 86850

Also known as: Indirect Antiglobulin Test, Indirect Coombs'

Clinical Use

Order Test

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.

Special Instructions

If antibodies are detected in the screening process, additional tests, including antibody identification and titer, will be automatically performed at an additional charge to further evaluate the nature and significance of the antibodies detected. This is crucial when preparing for a transfusion or during pregnancies to ensure compatibility and safety.

Limitations

The test does not detect all antibodies, specifically those of the IgM type or antibodies to antigens that occur infrequently. In rare cases, extremely low-titer antibodies may be detected but are too weak to identify. This test is not recommended for specimens known to test positive for red cell antibodies. Additionally, it should not be ordered for the husband or partner of a prenatal patient, as antibodies in their serum or plasma are irrelevant during pregnancy.

Test Details

Methodology

Immunoassay (Other)

Biomarkers

IgG antibody

Analyte

Red cell antibody screening • Other • Binary (Detected / Not Detected)

LOINC Codes

Order Codes

890-4

Result Codes

890-4

Result Turnaround Time

1-2 days

Specimen

Whole Blood

Volume

4 mL

Minimum Volume

1 mL

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.