Rhesus D Antibody Titration by Immunohematology (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the amount of antibodies against the Rhesus D blood group antigen in your blood. It helps determine if you have developed antibodies that could affect future pregnancies or blood transfusions.
["Assesses your immune response to the Rhesus D antigen for safety in pregnancy or bloodwork."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23578-8
- Short code
- RHDV Ab Titr Ser HAI
- Synonyms
- RHDV Ab Titr Ser HAI
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- hai
- 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 for Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, this test is important to check for the presence of Rhesus D antibodies. These antibodies can cross the placenta and affect a fetus if the mother is Rhesus negative (Rh-) and the fetus is Rh+. This test helps healthcare providers monitor and manage risks during pregnancy.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is tested using an immunoassay method to detect and measure the concentration of Rhesus D antibodies. The result tells your healthcare provider how strong your immune response is to this antigen.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually takes a few minutes. If you’re pregnant, your healthcare provider may schedule this test early in your pregnancy or during specific check-ups.
Possible Results and Next Steps
A low or absent antibody level may mean you don’t have these antibodies yet. A higher level indicates an active immune response. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and may recommend additional tests or monitoring, such as regular ultrasounds or antibody titers, depending on your situation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High levels of Rhesus D antibodies can be dangerous during pregnancy if the fetus is Rh-positive. These antibodies can attack the fetus’s red blood cells, leading to conditions like hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). For blood transfusions, high antibody levels may affect compatibility and require special precautions.
Short name
Rhesus D Antibody Level
Frequently asked questions
When might I need this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I prevent high antibody levels from forming?
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