Should we be screening for anti-Js^a?

We analyzed our historic patient database at North Shore University Hospital and determined both the overall frequency of anti-Js^aand the frequency at which it was detected in combination with other alloantibodies to red blood cell (RBC) antigens. Screening cells used currently are negative for Js^a. Our data suggest that anti-Js^awould not be detected in 30 to 40 percent of patients in which it is the sole antibody present. Since 1996 the antibody was only detected when other antibodies were found in the screening process. We are exposing 1.7 percent of our patients (90 patients/year) to Js^a. The clinical significance of anti-Js^ais apparent with previous literature, and our conclusion is that additional studies should be performed to determine whether Js^ashould be included in current antibody screening cells. Immunohematology2011;27:104–106.