Detection of IgG sensitization of red cells with 125I staphylococcal protein A.

Most cases of immune hemolytic anemia are associated with a positive direct antiglobulin test. However, in some cases, the antiglobulin test is not sensitive enough to detect low levels of red-cell bound antibodies. This report describes a method using radiolabelled purified staphylococcal protein A which is capable of detecting IgG sensitization of red cells beyond the threshold of serologic techniques. It is less cumbersome than previously described methods and does not require antibody purification procedures. Its effectiveness was demonstrated for the detection of red-cell alloantibodies and in evaluation of patients with acquired hemolytic anemias associated with a negative direct antiglobulin test.