Progress report on the ASHI/CAP Histocompatibility Survey Program, 1981-1986.

Two histocompatibility testing surveys were conducted over a five-year period by the American Society for Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics and the College of American Pathologists. More than 200 laboratories participated in the HS survey, which consisted of four shipments of cells and serum samples to be tested for ABO type, HLA-A and -B types, antibody identification, and lymphocytotoxicity crossmatching. About 100 laboratories participated in the DR survey, which consisted of four annual shipments to be tested for HLA-DR and -DQ types, antibody identification, and crossmatching. The results of the analysis of the HLA-typing results showed high consistency (generally greater than 90%) among laboratories in the definition of most recognized HLA antigens. In contrast, the HLA antibody screening was generally less consistent between laboratories. On the basis of 90% or greater consensus among participants, it was possible to develop a performance grading system.