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Abogroupbldbpu

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test determines the ABO blood type of a blood product unit before transfusion to ensure proper matching between donor and recipient.

Quick summary

{"ABO blood typing identifies the blood group (A, B, AB, or O) of a blood product unit","Correct blood type matching is essential to prevent dangerous transfusion reactions","This test is performed on all blood products before they are transfused to patients","The test uses the red blood cells and serum to determine the blood type","Results help healthcare providers select the right blood product for safe transfusion"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14578-9
Short code
ABO-BPU
Synonyms
ABO Group Bld BPU
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
EDTA vacutainer tube (lavender top) for blood product segments or direct sample from blood bag
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Serologic typing using tube agglutination with anti-A, anti-B, and anti-AB reagents; forward and reverse grouping
CPT
86880
SNOMED
365679006
Specimen volume
2-3 mL for blood product segment tubes; 5-10 mL for primary blood bag samples
Stability
Refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 72 hours; optimal testing within 24 hours of collection. Do not freeze.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The ABO blood group test is a laboratory test performed on blood products (such as packed red blood cells, plasma, or platelets) before they are transfused to a patient. This test identifies which of the four ABO blood types (A, B, AB, or O) the blood product belongs to. The test is critical for ensuring that patients receive blood that is compatible with their own blood type, preventing potentially life-threatening transfusion reactions.

How is the test performed?

The test involves mixing the blood product with specific antibodies (anti-A and anti-B) and observing whether agglutination (clumping) occurs. Additionally, the blood is tested against known A and B blood cells to confirm the type. If agglutination happens with anti-A serum, the blood type is A. If it happens with anti-B serum, the blood type is B. If both cause agglutination, the type is AB. If neither causes reaction, the type is O.

Why is it important?

ABO compatibility is the most critical factor in blood transfusion safety. When a patient receives blood of an incompatible ABO type, their immune system recognizes the foreign red blood cells as harmful and attacks them. This can cause a severe hemolytic transfusion reaction, which can be fatal. This test ensures that the blood product given to a patient matches safely with the recipient's blood type.

Reference range

ABO blood group is reported as A, B, AB, or O. This is a qualitative test and does not have a numeric reference range. Each blood product unit must be labeled with its confirmed ABO group.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

This test is performed on blood product units (e.g., red blood cell units, whole blood units) from registered blood donors, not patient specimens. No patient preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Does this test determine my personal blood type?
No, this test determines the blood type of the blood product unit (donor blood), not your personal blood type. Your blood type would be determined through a separate test using your own blood sample.
How long does the test take?
ABO typing of blood products is typically a quick test that can be completed within an hour. However, blood products undergo multiple safety checks including this test before they are considered ready for transfusion.
Is this test the same as the Rh factor test?
No, this test specifically identifies the ABO blood group (A, B, AB, or O). The Rh factor (positive or negative) is a separate test that determines whether the D antigen is present on red blood cells. Both tests are important for complete blood matching.
What happens if the wrong blood type is transfused?
If a patient receives incompatible blood, their immune system attacks the donor red blood cells, causing a hemolytic transfusion reaction. Symptoms may include fever, chills, pain, dark urine, and in severe cases, kidney failure, shock, or even death. This is why ABO typing of blood products is absolutely critical.
  1. 1
    American Red Cross - Blood TypesSource
  2. 2
    AABB - Blood Transfusion BasicsSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic - Blood TransfusionSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy