In the context of antibody compatibility testing, what does the term 'autocontrol' refer to?

In the context of antibody compatibility testing, what does the term 'autocontrol' refer to?

• A. A control to evaluate donor units
• B. A test to assess patient antibodies against their own cells
• C. A method to verify ABO typing
• D. A screening method for unexpected antibodies

Answer: (B)

The term 'autocontrol' refers to a test that assesses patient antibodies against their own cells. This test is an important component of compatibility testing in blood transfusion and helps identify any unexpected antibodies that a patient may have developed against their own red blood cells. By mixing the patient’s serum with their own red blood cells, the autocontrol can help determine if any immune reactions occur, indicating that there are antibodies present that could adversely affect transfusion safety. For example, if the autocontrol shows a positive reaction, this may imply the presence of an autoantibody, suggesting that further investigation is required before a transfusion can proceed safely. This assessment is crucial in preventing hemolytic reactions in patients receiving blood products. The other options, while relevant to blood bank practice, do not accurately define the term 'autocontrol.' Evaluating donor units, verifying ABO typing, and screening for unexpected antibodies are separate processes in compatibility testing that serve different purposes in ensuring safe transfusions.

The term 'autocontrol' refers to a test that assesses patient antibodies against their own cells. This test is an important component of compatibility testing in blood transfusion and helps identify any unexpected antibodies that a patient may have developed against their own red blood cells.

By mixing the patient’s serum with their own red blood cells, the autocontrol can help determine if any immune reactions occur, indicating that there are antibodies present that could adversely affect transfusion safety. For example, if the autocontrol shows a positive reaction, this may imply the presence of an autoantibody, suggesting that further investigation is required before a transfusion can proceed safely. This assessment is crucial in preventing hemolytic reactions in patients receiving blood products.

The other options, while relevant to blood bank practice, do not accurately define the term 'autocontrol.' Evaluating donor units, verifying ABO typing, and screening for unexpected antibodies are separate processes in compatibility testing that serve different purposes in ensuring safe transfusions.