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Anti-D (RhD) Antibody Screening and Confirmation (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for the presence of anti-D antibodies in your blood, which can occur after exposure to RhD-positive blood (e.g., pregnancy or blood transfusions).

Quick summary

["Anti-D antibodies may affect pregnancy or blood transfusions if present."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96665-5
Short code
HLA-DRB1 Donr
Synonyms
HLA-DRB1 Donr
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Matters

Anti-D antibodies are important for preventing complications in RhD-negative individuals who have been exposed to RhD-positive blood. For example, they can help prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) during pregnancy or hemolytic reactions after blood transfusions.

How It Works

The test uses a method called **immunoassay** to detect anti-D antibodies in your blood. If antibodies are found, they are confirmed with a separate test to ensure accuracy.

When You Might Need It

You may need this test if you are RhD-negative and have had a pregnancy with an RhD-positive baby, a blood transfusion, or other potential exposure to RhD-positive blood.

What to Expect

The test involves drawing blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it usually takes a few minutes. No special preparation is needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Anti-D Test

Frequently asked questions

If anti-D antibodies are detected, they may require monitoring or additional treatment, such as Rho(D) immune globulin (Rhogam) during pregnancy to protect the fetus.
Anti-D antibodies can increase the risk of complications like anemia or fetal bleeding if left untreated, especially in pregnancy.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means anti-D antibodies are present in your blood. This is usually managed with medical guidance to prevent complications.
How Often Should I Get Retested?
Retesting frequency depends on your medical history and doctor’s recommendations, often during pregnancy or after exposure to RhD-positive blood.
  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