Background:
Although we did extended Rh and Kell typing for all cases with a non-negative antibody screen, we did not routinely do this for patients with a negative antibody screen.
Principle:
Based on recent cases of rare phenotypes in the Rh system (e.g. r’r’), we will proactively test such patients most likely for this.
Policy:
Extended Rh (C, c, E, e) and Kell typing should be done on all patients meeting the any of the following criteria:
- D-negative phenotype
- Positive antibody identifications (not nonspecific)
- Non-negative antibody screens
Reference:
Standards for Blood Banks and Transfusion Services, AABB, Current Edition, Bethesda, MD, USA
