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Kell Blood Group Antibody Screening (Serum) – Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks for Kell antibodies in your blood, which can help prevent complications during pregnancy or blood transfusions. Kell antibodies are rare but can cause severe red blood cell destruction.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify Kell antibodies that may require further testing or management."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13310-8
Short code
Kell Group Ag RBC
Synonyms
Kell Group Ag RBC
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.2
Ref high
5.9
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
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 Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have a history of blood transfusions, pregnancy complications, or if your blood type is Kell-positive. It’s also used to screen pregnant women at risk of Kell antibody development, such as those with Kell-negative blood types.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.

What the Test Results Mean

If Kell antibodies are found, further testing (like Kell antibody identification) may be needed to determine their type and impact. Positive results may require additional monitoring or interventions, such as blood transfusions or immune globulin therapy.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test helps prevent hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) during pregnancy or prevent transfusion reactions in patients with Kell-positive blood.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Kell Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive Kell antibody screen mean?
A positive result means Kell antibodies are present in your blood. This requires further testing to identify the specific antibody type and may prompt additional medical evaluation, such as monitoring during pregnancy or selecting compatible blood products for transfusions.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your medical history and risk factors. Pregnant women with Kell-negative blood types may need testing during pregnancy, while others may only need it if symptoms or risk factors (like prior transfusions) suggest it’s necessary.
Can Kell antibodies be prevented?
While Kell antibodies can’t always be prevented, managing risks involves using compatible blood products during transfusions and monitoring pregnant women with Kell-negative blood types for antibody development.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy