Immunohematology References
Expertise You Can Trust for Complex Transfusion Needs
At San Diego Blood Bank, our Immunohematology Reference Laboratory (IRL) provides advanced serological and molecular testing to support hospitals, clinics, and transfusion services in resolving complex blood compatibility cases. Our highly trained specialists partner with healthcare professionals to help ensure safe, effective transfusion decisions for patients with challenging immunohematologic profiles.
Whether you’re facing unexplained antibody screens, complex crossmatches, or need antigen-negative units for alloimmunized patients, we’re here to provide timely, accurate, and consultative support.
IRL Services at a Glance
We offer a full suite of immunohematologic testing, including but not limited to:
- Antibody Identification and Titration
Support for patients with multiple or unusual red cell antibodies, including prenatal evaluations. - ABO/Rh Typing and Rh Phenotyping
Standard and extended blood grouping to assist with transfusion planning or Rh Immune Globulin eligibility. - Direct Antiglobulin Testing (DAT)
Detection of in vivo coating of red blood cells with immunoglobulin or complement, including transfusion reactions. - Precision Blood™ Red Cell Genotyping
Genotyping services for patients recently transfused or with complex serologic findings. - Elution Studies
Elution testing to resolve positive DAT results and identify bound antibodies. - Platelet Crossmatching
Assistance for patients with platelet refractoriness due to alloimmunization. - Hospital Inventory Searches
Consultation support in identifying red blood cell units with specific phenotypes, including antigen-negative products.
Turnaround times range from 8 hours (STAT) to 7–10 days (molecular testing) depending on test complexity. Our team is committed to rapid response and collaboration.
Submitting a Consultation Request
We strongly encourage hospitals to use Ovation for submitting Immunohematology Consultation Requests. This is the most efficient and secure way to initiate testing and ensure all required information is captured.
- Preferred Method: Submit via Ovation
For questions about using Ovation, call the IRL at 619-400-8257. - Backup Method: Download & complete the Consultation Request Form (PDF)
This form should only be used if Ovation access is unavailable.
Important
All samples — regardless of submission method — must be accompanied by either the Ovation requisition or the completed consultation request form upon delivery to the San Diego Blood Bank IRL.
Antigen-Negative Blood Requests
To request red blood cell units that are negative for specific antigens, please use the following form: IRL Request for Antigen Negative Red Blood Cells (PDF)
These units are serologically typed to match patient needs when clinically significant antibodies are identified.
Consult With Us
We are proud to serve as a trusted reference resource for transfusion services across the region. Our team welcomes direct consultation to discuss complex serologic profiles, unusual reactivity patterns, or patient transfusion plans.
Contact the IRL at 619-400-8257 or fax 619-725-3004.
For general laboratory support or to learn more about how we can support your patients, don’t hesitate to reach out.
