Fundamentals of Blood Group Serology

At the end of this course, students should be able to: 1. discuss the components of ABO; 2. explain Rhesus blood group systems; 3. acquire the skill for blood grouping techniques; 4. appreciate the anomalies in ABO grouping; 5. identify the subgroups of ABO system and variants of Rh system; and 6. describe organisational structures of the Blood Bank, facilities and reagents.

ABO and Rhesus Blood Groups, Inheritance, distribution and Genetic Theory. Blood Grouping Techniques – principles, disadvantages and advantages. Preparation of antisera – antiserum titration, avidity, Potency and specificity. Plant lectins –Preparation and Standardisation of antisera from lectins such as Dolichos biflorus Anticoagulants used in BGS, ACD, CPD-CPA-A and many others. Modes of Action, Side effects. Blood Bottles (MRC) and Plastic Bags – Advantages and disadvantages. Donor Screening- using CuSO4 method – other methods of screening. Preparation of blood products – cryoprecipitate, platelet rich plasma, packed cell fresh frozen plasma, fibrinogen and many others. Storage of blood and blood products – various methods, advantages and disadvantages Blood banking-organisation, structures, facilities and records. Blood group specific substances – synthesis, identification method(s) and application. Quality control of physical, chemical and reagent. Practical/tutorials ABO and Rhesus grouping methods, Antiserum Titration DCT and ICT antibody screening.