RHD Antibody Screening Test (Serum)
This test detects antibodies to the RhD antigen, which can indicate potential blood compatibility issues or pregnancy-related risks. It’s often used in blood donation screening or during pregnancy to assess fetal risk.
["Checks for RhD antibodies in your blood to prevent complications during pregnancy or blood transfusions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31699-2
- Short code
- RHDV Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- RHDV Ab Ser-aCnc
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’re a blood donor, expecting a baby, or experiencing symptoms that could relate to blood incompatibility. It helps ensure safe blood transfusions or monitor fetal health.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample from your vein (serum) to detect RhD antibodies through an immunoassay method. If antibodies are present, they’ll react with RhD antigens on red blood cells, triggering a measurable response.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually takes a few minutes. Wear comfortable clothing if you’re having blood drawn.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means RhD antibodies are present in your blood. This can affect blood donation eligibility or pregnancy outcomes, depending on your clinical situation. Your doctor will discuss next steps based on your results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
RhD antibodies are critical in blood compatibility and pregnancy. In pregnancy, they can cause hemolytic disease of the fetus or newborn (HDFN) if the mother is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive. For blood donors, positive results may disqualify you from certain donations or require additional screening.
Short name
RHD Antibody Screen (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my blood donation?
If you’re pregnant, a positive RhD antibody screen may indicate a need for further testing, such as fetal blood sampling or Rh immune globulin (RhIG) treatment to protect your baby. Your healthcare provider will guide you through next steps.
A negative result means no RhD antibodies were detected in your blood. This is normal for Rh-negative individuals without prior exposure. Your doctor may still monitor you if you’re at risk for Rh sensitization.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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