[Prevailing conditions and problems with blood transfusion tests as seen after analysis of Osaka Medical Association Survey].

We have analysed the results of the 1996 Osaka Medical Association Clinical Examination Quality Control survey. The number of participating clinical laboratories was 257 for ABO blood group system, 255 for Rh (D) antigen, and 250 for crossmatching. Five (5) clinical laboratories (1.9%) determined the ABO blood group by the antigens on red blood cells test only, and three (3) clinical laboratories (1.2%) showed errors when using antibodies in serum test. On the Rh(D) antigen tests, fifteen (15) clinical laboratories (5.9%) showed negative results without carrying out an antiglobulin test. Three (3) clinical laboratories (1.2%) were unable to detect the anti Dib antibody which showed 1:256 titerates using the antiglobulin test method. Moreover, it was apparent that thirty-four (34) clinical laboratories (13.6%) had problems with the test standards and other technical points, and further, two (2) clinical laboratories (0.8%) reported contradictory results due to confusing blood samples of donors and patients to be transfused. As a result, we consider it very important for preventing blood transfusion accidents that any technician carrying out blood transfusion tests makes correct decisions and determinations based on accurately performed test methods, and that a manual be prepared to avoid technical and administrative errors and that this manual be followed to the letter.