Skip to content

High-Resolution Donor-Specific Antibody Screening (High-Resolution HLA Antibody Test)

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

This test measures antibodies in your blood that may react against certain human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), which are proteins found on the surface of cells. HLA antibodies can affect compatibility for organ transplants or blood transfusions.

Quick summary

["Helps identify potential immune reactions that could impact transplant or blood compatibility."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96652-3
Short code
HLA-DQA1 Donr High Res
Synonyms
HLA-DQA1 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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’re preparing for an organ transplant, considering blood donation, or experiencing unexplained transfusion reactions. It’s also used to screen potential donors or recipients for compatibility issues before procedures.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. The process takes about 5–10 minutes. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have a history of bleeding disorders.

What the Test Results Mean

Results show the presence or absence of specific HLA antibodies. Positive results indicate antibodies that could theoretically react with donor cells, while negative results suggest compatibility is more likely. Results are interpreted by a specialist in immunology or transplantation.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is critical for ensuring safe organ transplants, where HLA matching reduces the risk of rejection. It’s also used in blood banking to screen donors or recipients for rare antibody profiles that could cause complications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HLA Antibody Screen (High-Resolution)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean for my transplant or blood donation?
A positive result means your body may produce antibodies against certain HLA proteins, which could affect transplant compatibility or increase the risk of transfusion reactions. Your healthcare team will discuss next steps, such as further testing or donor selection, based on these findings.
How often will I need this test?
Frequency depends on your situation. For transplant candidates, testing may be done preoperatively and periodically afterward. Blood donors may be screened periodically based on risk factors or prior reactions.
Will I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this blood test. However, always follow your provider’s instructions for any related tests or procedures.
  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