Bloody Minded Episode 37 - In The Lab: Red Cell Matchmaking | Group and Hold, Antibody Screen, Crossmatch
Mar 11, 2025
Dive into the fascinating world of blood transfusion science! Discover the intricacies of blood grouping, antibody screening, and the all-important crossmatch. Learn about the critical tests that ensure the right match between donor and recipient, including the roles of IgM and IgG antibodies. The podcast also unwraps common misconceptions about O-negative blood and the complexities of antiglobulin testing. Get ready for an educational yet humorous journey through the lab as the hosts highlight the vital aspects of ensuring safe transfusions!
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Double Check Blood Grouping
- Blood grouping involves forward and reverse grouping to double-check ABO and Rh status and prevent fatal transfusion errors.
- Forward group tests red cell antigens; reverse group tests patient plasma antibodies to confirm blood type safely.
Antibody Screen Detects IgG
- The antibody screen detects IgG antibodies in patient plasma using an indirect antiglobulin test.
- Anti-human globulin helps visualize weak IgG binding to red cells by causing agglutination in the lab.
DAT vs IAT Explained
- DAT (direct antiglobulin test) checks if antibodies are already coating red cells inside the body.
- IAT (indirect antiglobulin test) looks for antibodies in plasma that react with red cells in the lab.