Microcomputer Interpretation of Red Blood Cell Panel
Robert M. Kenney, Georgette Katuna · American Journal of Clinical Pathology · 1985
The interpretation of red blood cell panels and identification of alloantibodies can be a difficult and time-consuming task. PANEL-IZER, a computer program that performs this interpretation, is described. The panel analysis is based on a matrix algebra algorithm that is presented in detail. Conditional probability logic supplements the analysis by searching for unexpected reactive cells or other possibilities such as the presence of autoantibodies or antibodies to low- or high-frequency antigens. The program considers phases of reactivity, dosage effects, and reaction strengths to aid in antibody identification. Probability levels for antibody identification based on Fisher's "exact" method are calculated. The program also can help suggest a "select cell" panel. This program can be a valuable tool in blood banks to aid in the interpretation of panels, to check technologists' interpretations, to generate "select cell" panels, and to help teach students and residents antibody identification.