AM25-SN-22-L - Should We Bring ABO Genotyping to Our Institution? Things to Know About Taking the Leap

Proposed Session Description: There is an expanding need for molecular ABO typing and subtyping, especially in the evolving landscape of transplantation. While ABO genotyping is usually performed by specialized laboratories for discrepancy resolution, there is a growing motivation to perform the testing in-house with rapid few hour turnaround time (e.g. in the setting of urgent solid organ donor assessments where ABO subtyping and/or confirmation is required). We recognize that many blood bankers are inexperienced in molecular testing, the complexity of the ABO alleles, and unfamiliar with the nuanced differences in the requirements of ABO testing for transfusion versus transplantation purposes. With that said, ABO genotyping need no longer be restricted to large reference laboratories or academic medical centers since testing platforms for ABO genotyping are now available that can mitigate the previous burdens of instrument size, costs, and required specialized expertise.

In this session, we will focus on how the process looks likes overall for the recipe of bringing ABO genotyping in-house. Which clinical scenarios support the need for in-house genotyping? What does it take to perform these assays? What are the key standards and regulations to be aware of? What are the limitations of the various testing methods? What to know if wanting to go beyond basic-level reporting as a "higher level" ABO testing laboratory? Our expert speakers will share their experiences and discuss the logistical considerations, various testing methods and limitations, standards, and strategies to consider in the decision of bringing molecular ABO typing to your institution.