The Immunohematology Reference Laboratory (IRL) of the Penn-Jersey Region maintains one of the world’s most comprehensive reference laboratories for red cell serology.  Helping hospitals and blood centers resolve difficult serologic problems and locate and ship rare blood for transfusion supports physicians in providing their patients the best treatment available. 

The IRL can help resolve complex antibody identification problems or help select compatible blood with state-of-the-art testing.  Molecular testing is also available as an adjunct to serologic testing.

Serologic testing available includes:

• ABO/Rh testing;
• Direct antiglobulin testing;
• Single, multiple and complex antibody identification;
• ABO discrepancy resolution;
• Warm autoimmune hemolytic anemia investigation;
• Cold autoimmune hemolytic anemia investigation;
• Drug-induced hemolytic anemia investigation;
• Hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) investigation.

• Monocyte Monolayer Assay—a technically complex but extremely useful test to predict the in-vivo survival of serologically incompatible blood.
• IgA/anti-IgA testing—Donor and patient samples may be tested by an ELISA method reviewed by the state of New York and the Canadian Blood Services and detects levels of IgA below 0.05 mg/dL. 

See the Immunohematology Consultation Request Instructions and Checklist and  Immunohematology Consultation Request Form for sample and labeling requirements.   For additional information or to schedule testing, contact the Penn-Jersey Region IRL at 215-451-4176.

NRLBGS
The National Reference Laboratory for Blood Group Serology (NRLBGS) is also located in Philadelphia and performs testing for the American Red Cross Blood Services regions, other blood centers and hospitals.  This laboratory also operates the American Rare Donor Program.  For additional information about the NRLBGS or to obtain testing services, contact 215-451-4901.