Gel test ; Direct antiglobulin test ; Irregular antibody screening
Abstract
Background :The Gel test is a new method, which has become commercially available within the last few years for the detection of antibodies against red blood cell antigens.The procedures are standardized and easy to perform, and provide clear and stable reactions that improve the interpretation of results. In this study, we conducted the Gel test to investigate its usefulness in direct antiglobulin test (DAT) and irregular antibodyscreening.
Methods :A total of 40 paired samples were tested in DAT using the Gel test and the conventional tube test. And 46 patient\'s sera in which irregular antibodies previously identified by the tube test were screened for the irregular antibodies by the Gel test. We assumed the lower detection limits of antibody levels using Rh immunoglobulin and evaluated the sensitivity of the Gel test using the commercially available monoclonal antibodies.
Results :Of the 40 samples tested for DAT, 33 samples were agreed in the results between the Gel test and the tube test (concordance rate; 83%). Four samples were positive by the Gel test but negative by the tube test, and 3 samples were vice versa. When comparing the Gel test with the conventional tube test for antibody screening, all irregular antibodies were detected in samples clinically relevant antibodies encountered by the tube test. The lower detection limits of Rh immunoglobulin of two methods were same (4ng/mL). The LISS/Coombs cards of the Gel test showed equal or superior to the tube test in the detection of all antibodies except enzyme~only anti-c and clinically non-significant cold type antibodies.
Conclusion :The Gel test is a fast, reliable and sensitive method, and comparable to routine tube test in DAT and antibody screening test.