Recent and future trends in blood group typing.

Blood group typing is the process of testing red blood cells to determine which antigens are present and which are absent. It is standard practice to test for A, B, and D (Rh) antigens and to perform tests for other antigens in selected cases. ABO blood group typing is confirmed by reverse grouping that detects expected isoagglutinins. Unexpected antibodies can be demonstrated by antibody screening tests. For transfusion, donor units compatible with the patient are selected. Prior to transfusion, a crossmatch is performed as a final check for incompatibility. This article describes the recent and future methods of blood group typing and testing of serological compatibility. In addition, methods for blood bank automation are presented.