Immediate spin (IS) crossmatch for ABO compatibility

Citation

Shulman IA, Nelson JM, Saxena S, Thompson JC, Okamoto M, Kent DR, Nakayama RK. Experience with the routine use of an abbreviated crossmatch. Am J Clin Pathol 1984; 82(2):178-81.

Abstract

Three years' experience with the routine use of an abbreviated crossmatch procedure is reported. If a patient had no known history of and/or no currently demonstrable unexpected antibodies, ABO and Rh type specific blood was crossmatched at the time of need by using an immediate spin saline abbreviated crossmatch. Once blood was issued, both a 37^oC incubation and an antiglobulin crossmatch were done using the same tube employed for the abbreviated crossmatch. This served as a check that clinically significant antibodies were not overlooked.

None of the 19,818 patients transfused following an abbreviated crossmatch suffered an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction as a result of this strategy; however, two patients may have manifested asymptomatic hemolysis. This approach to compatibility testing might be appealing to hospitals faced with fiscal limitations and new regulations affecting hospital reimbursement.

IS crossmatch for ABO compatibility