Blood group antigen survival on freeze-dried erythrocytes and ghosts after isolation.

To screen and identify irregular antibodies, whatever the technique used, fresh erythrocytes (RBCs) are needed to set up the panel. Solid-phase tests using dried blood cells are available, but the technique is based on the adherence of sensitized RBCs, which have a short life span. We have checked antigen survival on membranes with a saline test and an antiglobulin test for two methods to preserve the antigen substrate: freeze-drying of RBCs and preparation of RBC membranes. The different antigens of the ABO, Rhesus, Kell, P, Lewis, MNSs, Lutheran, Duffy, Kidd and Li systems are well recognized on the membranes after isolation and on freeze-dried cells. Demonstration of antigen survival leads us to consider using membranes or freeze-dried cells in new immunological tests.