Dry Blood Spot (DBS) Immunoassay for RhD Antibody Screening (Qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of antibodies against the RhD antigen in your blood, using a small blood sample collected on a special card. It helps determine if you may be at risk of developing Rh incompatibility during pregnancy or blood transfusions.
["Assesses RhD antibody risk to prevent complications in pregnancy or blood transfusions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23579-6
- Short code
- RHDV Ag Tiss Ql IF
- Synonyms
- RHDV Ag Tiss Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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
How the Test Works
A tiny blood sample is collected from your finger and applied to a filter paper card. The card is then sent to a lab where antibodies against RhD are detected using an immunoassay method. This method detects if your immune system has produced antibodies that could react against RhD-positive blood.
Why It’s Done
This test is typically performed on pregnant women who are Rh-negative (lacking the RhD antigen) to check for RhD antibodies. It’s also used before blood transfusions to ensure compatibility, especially if you’ve had a previous pregnancy with an RhD-positive baby or received RhD-positive blood products.
Sample Collection
A small amount of blood is taken from your finger using a sterile needle. The blood is placed on a special card that dries quickly. No special preparation is needed, but avoid eating or drinking for 1 hour before the test if instructed.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood sample is collected, you may feel a slight pinch or sting. The card is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days, but timing can vary. If antibodies are found, further testing may be needed to confirm their level and type.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
If RhD antibodies are detected, it means your immune system has recognized RhD-positive blood as foreign. This can lead to complications during pregnancy, such as hemolytic disease of the fetus or newborn (HDFN), or during blood transfusions, causing severe reactions. Early detection helps guide further testing and management to prevent risks.
Short name
RhD Antibody Screen (DBS)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Will I need more tests if this result is positive?
Can I prevent RhD antibodies 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