This book is for those who are learning about and working in the field of transfusion medicine and red cell genotyping, particularly those who are working or training as laboratory staff, supervisors, or physicians. The book covers the basics of red cell genetics and how molecular testing is used in the clinical setting. It connects the test performed to the genes, to the expressed phenotype, and to its relevance in clinical transfusion medicine. It should be a useful tool for evaluating patients who may benefit from blood group genetic testing and for interpretation of genotype results.
For both hospitals and blood suppliers, obtaining an extended antigen profile for 20 or more blood group antigens with a single genotyping assay can aid antibody identification and selection of antigen-matched blood components, particularly for patients with multiple and/or rare antibodies. Blood group genotyping provides a reliable method of in-depth, precise, and efficient prediction of phenotypes. It has become a critical tool in many clinical settings.
