Platelet Allo Immunization Investigation

Test description

Platelet refractoriness is defined as a poor response (no increase in the post transfusion platelet increment) following a platelet transfusion. The cause of refractoriness may be immune or non-immune in nature. Both HLA and HPA antibodies have been implicated in patients' lack of response to platelet transfusions. Investigation may include HLA and HPA antibody testing as well as HLA and HPA genotyping of the patient.

Platelet Allo Immunization Investigation (PDF)

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Specimen and requisition requirements

Specimen(s):
Initial Screen: Five (5) full 5-7 ml EDTA (lavender) tubes mixed thoroughly by gentle agitation and one (1) 10mL SST serum tube inverted 5-10 times to activate clotting.
Rescreens: One (1) 10mL SST serum tube inverted 5-10 times to activate clotting.
Pediatric Patients: Contact the National Platelet Immunology Reference Laboratory (NPIRL) for minimum sample requirements.

Label specimen(s) with the required minimum information: patient’s last name, first name, PHN/ (PHIN) or hospital number or other unique identifier, date of collection and facility name.

Complete Requisition (must include):

  • Patient's last name, first name, date of birth and PHN/(PHIN) or hospital number or other unique identifier
  • Facility Name
  • Physician/Health Care Provider name
  • Phlebotomist name, classification, initial
  • Date/time  of collection
  • Name, facility, address, contact number of individual to whom the report will be sent

Requisition

Platelet Immunology Requisition (PDF)
(Electronic Fillable Form)

Pre-shipping storage

If unable to ship within 24 hours of collection store refrigerated at 1-10oC. Refrigerated samples must arrive within 48 hours of collection.

If unable to ship within 48 hours of collection; separate and freeze serum sample only.
Do not open EDTA Samples.

Shipping instructions

Contact the National Platelet Immunology Reference Laboratory (NPIRL) prior to shipping samples so that information may be obtained to assess the priority of the requested investigation.

Shipping

Ship in a container with an ice pack (gel pack stored at 2 - 8° C may be used for refrigerated samples).
Select shipping method for container to arrive at testing site within 24 hours.

Fax shipping information (way bill #) to 204-789-1186. Indicate the patient name and type of investigation on the fax.

Send to 

Canadian Blood Services
Winnipeg Centre
National Platelet Immunology Reference Laboratory (NPIRL)
777 William Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R4
Tel: 204-789-1152
Fax: 204-789-1186