AABB eCasts

Immunohematology Boot Camp: ABO System

When
Where
Virtual

Event details

The ABO system, first described by Karl Landsteiner in 1900, remains the most important blood group system in transfusion medicine and transplantation. While testing for ABO is a requirement for blood donors, a standard part of pretransfusion testing for patients, and a most basic concept in transfusion medicine, our understanding of the ABO system continues to expand as new ABO alleles are routinely discovered. It is imperative for transfusion medicine professionals to have a comprehensive understanding of this most important blood group system.

This program will offer a thorough overview of the ABO blood group system, beginning with a description of the biochemical and structural aspects of ABO antigens. The importance of ABO testing, from routine testing for transfusion to monitoring antibody titers for transplant, will be discussed. Causes and resolution of ABO discrepancies will be highlighted. Additionally, molecular aspects of the ABO blood group system will be reviewed, including both the applications and limitations of ABO genotyping.

Presented by

Laura Cooling, MD
Associate Director, Transfusion Medicine; Director, Cellular Therapy Laboratory; Director, Immunohematology Reference Laboratory, Michigan Medicine
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI

Lynsi Rahorst, MHPE, MLS(ASCP)SBB
Manager, Education & Training, IRL/Genomics
New York Blood Center Enterprises, New York, NY

Learning Objectives

After participating in this educational activity, participants should be able to:

  • Explain the biochemistry and structure of ABO blood group antigens and their importance in transfusion medicine and transplantation.
  • Describe required serologic testing for ABO in donors and transfusion recipients, along with ABO considerations in transplantation.
  • Identify both common and unusual causes of ABO discrepancies and address their resolution.
  • Discuss the molecular background of the ABO blood group system, the diversity of ABO alleles, and applications of ABO genotyping.

Registration

Registration includes access to both the live and on-demand version of this eCast. Registration for the live eCast will close 1 hour prior to the eCast start time. If you register after this time you will receive access to the on-demand eCast when it is available.

For additional information and to register, visit the AABB event webpage. Please note: Registration fees are required for AABB events.