HLA Antibody
Does this test have other names?
HLA antibody screening, HLA screening assay
What is this test?
This test checks your blood for antibodies against a cell marker called a human leukocyte
antigen (HLA). The test is done if you need an organ transplant, to help find a donor
organ that will work in your body. Different forms of the HLA antibody are involved
in autoimmune diseases. These are diseases in which the body attacks its own tissues.
The HLA test has also been used to identify these diseases.
HLAs play an important role in protecting you from infections. But they also make
organ transplantation more complex. HLAs are protein markers found on nearly all of
your body's cells. They help tell your immune system which cells belong to your body—and
shouldn't be attacked. And they tell which ones are invaders that your immune system
needs to fight.
Before an organ transplant, healthcare providers match the recipient and donor HLAs.
Some people who need a transplant have antibodies against HLAs. Most people don't
have these antibodies. But women who have been pregnant and people who have had blood
transfusions or transplants may have these antibodies. These antibodies can cause
your body to reject a transplanted organ right away. Or they may cause the organ to
stop working over time.
To find an acceptable match, it's important that your healthcare provider measure
any HLA antibodies in your bloodstream.
Why do I need this test?
You may need this test if you need an organ transplant from someone else, if your
kidney, lung, or other organ is no longer able to work correctly. This test helps
give you the best possible chance that the transplant will work well in your body.
You may also need this test if your healthcare provider thinks that you have an autoimmune
disease.
What other tests might I have along with this test?
In addition to the HLA test, you may have:
-
A test that looks at the type of HLA molecules on the surface of your immune system
cells. This helps make sure your donor is a good match.
-
DNA testing of HLA-related genes. This test needs taking DNA from a sample of cells,
usually immune system cells, from a blood sample.
What do my test results mean?
Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things.
Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. They may not mean you
have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.
Your results will show if you have certain types of antibodies that could cause a
problem after a transplant. Some people have these antibodies, and some don't. Your
results will affect the search process for a transplant.
How is this test done?
The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in
your arm or hand.
Does this test pose any risks?
Having a blood test with a needle carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection,
bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may
feel a slight sting or pain. Afterward, the site may be sore.
What might affect my test results?
Past pregnancies, blood transfusions, and transplants can affect your results.
How do I get ready for this test?
Tell your healthcare provider if you have had any of the below:
Be sure your healthcare provider knows about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements
you are taking. This includes medicines that don’t need a prescription and any illegal
drugs you may use.