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Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Allele Screening/Confirmation by High-Resolution Sequencing

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test identifies specific genetic markers (HLA alleles) on white blood cells, which help match donors and recipients for organ transplants or blood transfusions.

Quick summary

HLA typing ensures a better chance of compatibility for life-saving procedures.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96616-8
Short code
HLA-A Unreslvd Alleles Donr High Res
Synonyms
HLA-A Unreslvd Alleles Donr High Res
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
high-resolution
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors may order this test to check for genetic matches between a donor and recipient before organ transplants (e.g., kidneys, heart, or bone marrow) or to screen blood donors for rare HLA types.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A blood sample is taken from your arm, usually in a lab setting. This is a standard procedure for HLA typing.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results list specific HLA alleles found in your blood cells. These alleles help determine compatibility for transplants or blood transfusions. Exact matches improve outcomes but aren’t always possible.

Common Uses in Transplant Medicine

HLA typing is critical for matching donors and recipients to reduce rejection risks. It’s used in solid organ transplants (e.g., kidney, liver) and stem cell transplants.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: HLA typing is essential for transplant success by identifying genetic matches. Mismatches can increase the risk of organ rejection or complications, while close matches improve survival rates.

Short name

HLA Typing (High-Resolution)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 1–2 weeks, depending on lab processing and testing complexity. Follow-up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
What if my HLA alleles don’t match a donor?
A mismatch doesn’t always disqualify a donor. Doctors may use other factors (e.g., blood type, size) or immunosuppressive drugs to manage risks. Close monitoring is key.
Can HLA typing be done on urine or saliva instead of blood?
No, HLA typing requires blood because it analyzes white blood cell (leukocyte) markers. Urine or saliva tests aren’t used for this purpose.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy