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 filter card. It helps determine if you may be developing an immune response that could affect future pregnancies or blood transfusions.
["This screening helps prevent complications from Rh incompatibility by identifying early signs of antibody formation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23582-0
- Short code
- RHDV Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- RHDV Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- 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 or Blood Transfusions
If you are pregnant, have had a baby recently, or have undergone blood transfusions, your healthcare provider may recommend this test to monitor for RhD antibodies. RhD antibodies can develop if your immune system mistakenly attacks red blood cells that carry the RhD antigen, which can be dangerous in certain situations, such as during pregnancy or after blood transfusions.
How the Test Works
A tiny blood sample is collected and applied to a special filter card (DBS). The card is then sent to a lab where an immunoassay detects any RhD antibodies in your blood. This method is non-invasive and avoids the need for venipuncture in some cases.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may not need special preparation. However, inform your healthcare provider if you are on blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or are pregnant. Avoid eating or drinking for a short time before the test if instructed.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will gently prick your finger to collect a small blood sample. The blood will be spread on the filter card, and you may feel a slight pinch. The process usually takes a few minutes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for RhD-negative individuals (those without the RhD antigen). If antibodies are detected, it may indicate an immune response that could require further evaluation, such as additional antibody testing or monitoring during pregnancy. Untreated RhD antibodies can lead to complications like hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN) or severe anemia in rare cases.
Short name
RhD Antibody Screen (DBS)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Will I need to take any additional tests if my 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