Agglutination

Definition

Agglutination is the clumping of particles, often used to describe the aggregation of blood cells when antibodies bind to antigens on their surfaces. This process is crucial in blood typing and cross-matching before transfusions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Agglutination can occur during blood transfusions if the donor's and recipient's blood types are not compatible.
2. It is a key mechanism in immunohematology for identifying blood group antigens.
3. Agglutination reactions can be observed in both laboratory settings and point-of-care testing kits.
4. The Coombs test, or antiglobulin test, relies on agglutination to detect antibodies that may cause hemolytic reactions.
5. In intravenous fluid therapy, avoiding agglutination is critical to prevent adverse reactions during blood product administration.

Review Questions

• What causes agglutination in a blood transfusion?
• How is agglutination used in the Coombs test?
• Why is it important to avoid agglutination during intravenous fluid therapy?

Related terms

Antibody: A protein produced by the immune system that binds specifically to an antigen.

Hemolytic Reaction: An adverse reaction that occurs when red blood cells are destroyed by antibodies.

Cross-Matching: A laboratory test performed before a blood transfusion to ensure donor-recipient compatibility.