Rh Antibody Titres Test

Antibodies are proteins made by our immune system to attack viruses and bacteria. Under abnormal conditions, these antibodies attack the harmless or good red blood cells in our body causing immune disorders. The Rh (Rhesus factor) antibody Titres test is performed to determine the Rh negativity in a person’s blood serum. The type and quantity of the antibodies in the blood serum can be determined. During early stages of pregnancy, this test proves fruitful in knowing whether the mother is Rh negative. Later, the new born may also be tested to determine whether the Rh negativity has passed from the mother to the baby through the placenta. Problem arises when Rh negative blood comes in contact with Rh positive blood. In such a case, the Rh antibody Titres test is done to protect against Rh sensitization. The Rh antibody Titres test is usually ordered in case of an impending booster shot, recent or past infection, and to determine any autoimmune disorder.

No special preparation and no fasting are required. You need to discuss your present health condition, recent or past illnesses or infections if any. Discuss any on-going medication if any with the doctor. The doctor’s advice is of prime importance. You must follow instructions, if any, regarding discontinuing current medication. If there is a history of chemotherapy, it should be discussed with the doctor. Like all blood tests, wear sleeveless or short sleeve dress to allow easy blood sample collection.

Basically, the test result indicates the strength of the body’s immune response. Normal test result indicates healthy body. Abnormal test result indicates immune disorders like, hyper-IgE syndrome, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (aPL), X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Current or past infections like, meningitis, diphtheria, hepatitis, chicken pox, helicobacter pylori etc. Abnormal test result for a baby indicates haemolytic problems, depending on the level of other antibodies.

The blood sample is collected through venipuncture by a qualified phlebotomist. A tourniquet is tied to the upper arm and the vein is located. An alcohol based antiseptic is applied to the needle site. A disposable needle is pushed gently into the vein and the tourniquet is released. Preferably, 5 ml blood sample is collected in a labelled yellow top tube. Alternatively, 1 ml blood sample can also be collected in a labelled EDTA lavender top tube. Based on the red cell panel studies, the test is carried out in a laboratory. The method ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is used to detect Rh antibody Titres.