A sample demonstrates a DAT profile that is positive with polyspecific AHG, negative with anti-IgG, and positive with anti-C3. If the Donath-Landsteiner test was also positive, what should the clinical laboratory professional do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A positive DAT profile with polyspecific AHG, negative anti-IgG, and positive anti-C3 suggests the presence of complement-mediated hemolysis. The positive Donath-Landsteiner test is highly suggestive of paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH), a rare autoimmune hemolytic anemia. It is important for the clinical laboratory professional to confer with the supervisor regarding PCH as it requires additional testing and further management. Performing an elution and antibody panel, requesting a serum sample for antibody screen, or performing a cold agglutinin test would not provide useful information for the diagnosis of PCH.

A Sample Demonstrates a DAT Profile That Is Positive with Polyspecific