What does polyspecific AHG target?

Polyspecific antihuman globulin (AHG) is designed to target multiple components of the human immune system, specifically both human IgG antibodies and complement component C3. This testing is critical in various laboratories, especially in blood banking and immunohematology, to detect sensitized red blood cells (RBCs) that may not be visible through routine microscopic examination.

By utilizing a polyspecific AHG, laboratories can identify the presence of IgG antibodies that may be bound to RBCs, indicating an immune response or sensitization that requires further investigation. Additionally, it can detect complement-mediated hemolysis by recognizing C3b or C3d that may be attached to red blood cells, which is important for diagnosing conditions such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia or in compatibility testing before transfusions.

This comprehensive approach makes polyspecific AHG a valuable tool, as it provides a broader screening capability than reagents that target only one component. Understanding the dual targeting of both IgG and complement C3 helps clarify the rationale behind using polyspecific AHG in clinical practice, emphasizing its role in enhancing the accuracy of hemolytic disease diagnoses and transfusion safety assessments.