Quick Facts
- Sample: Whole blood (lavender-top EDTA tube)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turnaround: 2 - 4 business days
What This Test Measures
This test detects the presence or absence of the K (Kell) antigen on the surface of red blood cells. Results are determined using hemagglutination methodology, a direct laboratory technique that identifies whether red cells carry the K antigen based on their reaction with specific antibodies.
This test reports the K antigen status only and does not include testing for the little k (cellano) antigen. It provides a qualitative result (K antigen present or absent) and does not measure antibody levels, titers, or other Kell system antigens.
Benefits
- Identifies presence or absence of the K (Kell) antigen on red cells
- Supports paternal RBC typing related to maternal antibody findings
- Uses a direct hemagglutination method for antigen detection
- Applicable for donor screening before bone marrow, tissue, organ, or blood donation
- Results available within 2 - 4 business days
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals whose partner has a known or suspected maternal antibody
- Prospective bone marrow, tissue, organ, or blood donors
- Individuals whose healthcare provider is assessing paternal red cell antigens
- Individuals referred for red cell antigen typing as part of donor evaluation
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test identifies whether the K (Kell) antigen is present on your red blood cells. A healthcare provider may use this information, particularly in paternal testing, to help assess antigens that correspond to a maternal antibody. This test evaluates the K antigen only and does not diagnose any condition on its own.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be appropriate for individuals whose partner has a known maternal antibody where paternal antigen status is relevant, or for individuals being evaluated as bone marrow, tissue, organ, or blood donors prior to donation. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether this test applies to your situation.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider this test when a healthcare provider needs to determine paternal K antigen status in relation to a maternal antibody finding, or as part of donor evaluation before bone marrow, tissue, organ, or blood donation. Testing of prenatal patients for this antigen is generally not indicated.
4. What does this test measure?
This test measures the presence or absence of the K (Kell) antigen on red blood cells using hemagglutination, a directly performed laboratory method. The result is reported qualitatively as antigen present or absent. This test does not include the little k (cellano) antigen, which is available as a separate test. The required specimen is whole blood collected in a lavender-top (EDTA) tube.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available within 2 to 4 business days from specimen pickup. In some cases, additional time may be needed for confirmatory or reflex testing, and testing schedules may vary.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your K antigen result depends on the clinical context, including any known maternal antibody status, donation requirements, and other laboratory findings. Certain conditions, such as potent cold agglutinins, a positive direct antiglobulin test, or bacteremia, may interfere with result interpretation. This test does not measure antibody levels or other Kell antigens, so results should not be treated as interchangeable with other typing tests. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider for full interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your K antigen result raises questions or concerns, review the findings with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing, such as little k (cellano) typing, is appropriate based on your specific situation. This test result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no standard repeat testing schedule for K antigen typing. Testing frequency, if any, should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific clinical or donation-related needs.
Pre test preparation
No fasting required.
