What is Du Test?

D antigen is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. It is often known as the Rh factor and indicates your blood type. People are either D (Rh) negative or D (Rh) positive. The absence of the D antigen is identified as D or Rh-negative. D positive is easily identified whereas it is difficult to check and confirm the presence of the D negative. Rh negativity becomes an issue during pregnancy when you have Rh-negative while your baby has Rh-positive. It can cause hemolytic disease to the baby which consequently leads to anemia and sometimes even death. Du Test test is performed on the blood sample to measure the level of Weak D Antigen in the blood. It confirms Rh Negativity and is also administered during and after Rh negativity treatment.

Preparation

No special preparation is required. You will have to inform your doctor of all your medications prior. Preferably wear sleeveless or short-sleeved clothes.

Uses

The absence of D antigen indicates Rh negativity of blood. Agglutination (firmly stuck to form a mass) indicates a positive Rh factor.

Procedure

• A blood test can provide you with your blood type and Rh factor.
• The area, usually accommodating the visible vein on the inside of your hand (near your elbow) is cleaned using an alcohol pad.
• The brood is drawn out using a thin needle.
• The punctured area is then bandaged.
• The sample is sent for testing the presence of the D antigen.
• There might be a little bleeding or a mild spell of dizziness.