What is a primary cause of false results in AHG testing?

In the context of AHG (antihuman globulin) testing, improper sample handling is a primary cause of false results. AHG testing is a crucial procedure in transfusion medicine and blood typing, primarily used for detecting antibodies and sensitized red blood cells. When samples are not handled properly, factors such as hemolysis, contamination, or delays in processing can occur, leading to inaccurate test results.

For example, if a blood sample is improperly stored, it can lead to the degradation of antibodies or alterations in red blood cell integrity. This can significantly impact the outcome of the test, leading to either false positives or false negatives. Therefore, ensuring proper collection, transport, and storage conditions is vital to maintain the integrity of the sample and ensure accurate AHG testing results.

The other options, while they can affect the testing process, do not directly align with the operational integrity of the sample in the same critical manner as improper handling does. Inaccurate test protocols may lead to errors, but these typically stem from human factor inconsistencies rather than the inherent qualities of the sample itself. High reagent purity is generally desired for accurate testing, and excessive dilution of serum could alter the concentration of antibodies but isn’t as immediate a concern as mishand