What is the expected result of a test using polyspecific AHG?

The expected result of a test using polyspecific anti-human globulin (AHG) is agglutination indicating the presence of IgG antibodies and complement. Polyspecific AHG is designed to detect both IgG antibodies and complement components that may be bound to red blood cells. In the context of immunohematology, the presence of agglutination in a test that uses polyspecific AHG suggests that immune complexes are forming due to the binding of these antibodies or complement to the antigens on the surface of the red blood cells.

When a sample reacts positively with polyspecific AHG, it demonstrates the presence of antibodies, particularly IgG, which are commonly involved in immune responses against foreign antigens. Additionally, the presence of complement indicates that the immune response might be robust enough to activate the complement cascade, contributing to the agglutination observed in the test.

This result is significant in various clinical scenarios, especially blood transfusion compatibility and hemolytic disease of the newborn, where the detection of IgG antibodies can pinpoint antibody-mediated hemolytic conditions.