P155 Performing a virtual crossmatch: A semi-automated approach

Abstract

Aim The aim of this method is to obtain clear, fast, and accurate virtual crossmatch results which enhance communication with our clinical programs. Methods Virtual crossmatching is essential for heart and lung transplantation due to the need for short ischemia times and is increasingly used in kidney transplantation to facilitate organ allocation. There are currently no reliable tools for performing a virtual crossmatch. Our previous method was to manually assess the patient’s antibody profile and compare to the HLA typing of the potential donor. For patients with extensive history, this process was untimely and cumbersome. Our initial improvement was to export all Luminex Single Antigen (LSA) Bead results into a Microsoft Excel file, which was then manually sorted to generate a report with patient and donor HLA typings as well as current sample and historical peak mean fluorescent intensity values (MFIs) for donor specific antibodies (DSA). Most recently, we developed a semi-automated approach by creating a Microsoft Excel Workbook with a specifically written macro that sorts the exported data automatically and calculates cumulative MFI values. Results Once the HLA typing of the potential donor is entered into the workbook and the LSA beads are chosen, the MFI values will be automatically pulled into the current and historical tables. These values are then calculated automatically to obtain a current and historical cumulative MFI value. The sample dates of the peak historical MFI are also included (Fig. 1). The new approach has been validated and implemented into clinical practice. Conclusions We found the semi-automated workbook to be a reliable tool which reduces clerical errors, saves time, provides clear data interpretation, and can be easily shared with our transplant programs. In addition, the workbook includes an optional graph of DSA MFIs over time. This additional functionality provides a straightforward antibody assessment in relation to the potential donor. Download : Download high-res image (356KB) Download : Download full-size image