Rh Antigen Phenotyping (DcCeE) with Kell Antigen Screening

Being Rh positive means that the person has the Rh (D) antigen on their red blood cells. Conversely, Rh negative individuals lack the Rh (D) antigen. The presence or absence of this antigen determines whether a person is Rh positive or Rh negative.

The Kell blood group system is a group of antigens present on the surface of red blood cells. The presence or absence of these antigens forms a person's Kell blood type. Kell antigens can stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies if they are foreign to a person's system.

Rh or Kell incompatibility can cause hemolytic reactions in recipients of blood transfusions. In pregnant women, it can lead to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN), which can cause severe anemia and other complications in the baby.

Rh incompatibility can be managed with injections of Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) to prevent the mother from forming antibodies against the Rh antigen. There is currently no similar treatment for Kell incompatibility, but close monitoring can help manage potential complications.

Symptoms of HDFN can include severe anemia, jaundice, enlarged liver or spleen, heart failure, and, in severe cases, death.

The test is highly accurate when performed in a reputable laboratory. However, false positives or negatives can occur in rare instances.

A positive result indicates the presence of the specific Rh or Kell antigens tested for.

Yes, both Rh negative and positive individuals can donate blood. However, it's crucial to ensure compatibility between the donor and recipient to prevent immune reactions.

If an Rh-negative woman is pregnant with an Rh-positive baby, her body may produce antibodies against the baby's Rh-positive blood, leading to a condition known as hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN).

Rh incompatibility can be prevented by administering Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) to the Rh-negative mother during pregnancy and after the birth of an Rh-positive baby.

This test requires a simple blood draw, which may cause mild discomfort and a slight pricking sensation. The pain is usually minimal and temporary.

The turnaround time can vary depending on the lab, but usually, results are available within 24-48 hours.

The Kell antigen is one of the many antigens in the Kell blood group system. People can be either Kell positive (presence of antigen) or negative (absence of antigen). It's important because it can cause severe reactions in blood transfusions if not matched properly. It can also lead to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn if the mother and baby have different Kell status.

If a woman develops antibodies to the Kell antigen during a pregnancy, these antibodies can affect future pregnancies. They can cross the placenta and destroy the red blood cells of any subsequent Kell- positive babies, leading to anemia and other complications.