Comparison of methods for blood group antigen typing
| Antibody-based typing . | DNA-based typing . |
|---|---|
| ≤1-h turnaround | 24-h turnaround |
| Manual | Automated |
| Fresh RBCs required | Any cell source* |
| Existing equipment | Specialized equipment and environment |
| Direct detection of antigen expression | Indirect “predicted” antigen expression |
| Interference from transfused RBCs or bound IgG | No interference from transfused RBCs or bound IgG |
| No reagents for some clinically significant antigens | Type for any antigen whose genetic basis is known |
| Weak/variable antigen expression may be missed | Detection of weak antigen expression |
| Low resolution | High resolution possible |
| Antibody-based typing . | DNA-based typing . |
|---|---|
| ≤1-h turnaround | 24-h turnaround |
| Manual | Automated |
| Fresh RBCs required | Any cell source* |
| Existing equipment | Specialized equipment and environment |
| Direct detection of antigen expression | Indirect “predicted” antigen expression |
| Interference from transfused RBCs or bound IgG | No interference from transfused RBCs or bound IgG |
| No reagents for some clinically significant antigens | Type for any antigen whose genetic basis is known |
| Weak/variable antigen expression may be missed | Detection of weak antigen expression |
| Low resolution | High resolution possible |
IgG, immunoglobulin G.
Including fetal typing from cell-free DNA in maternal plasma.