Anti-IH: An innocuous antibody complicating pre-transfusion testing

The positive antibody screen during pre-transfusion testing helps in the detection of clinically significant antibodies. However, sometimes clinically insignificant antibodies might perplex the serologic workup and can cause a delay in transfusion. Prompt recognition and timely resolution of these discrepancies in pre-transfusion testing, although time-consuming, is essential for the provision of safe blood to recipients. We report a case with an anti-IH antibody complicating the serological workup of pre-transfusion testing and an approach for its resolution and management. The role of transfusion medicine specialists in the characterization of antibodies and the selection of appropriate blood is paramount or warranted to promote safe transfusion practices.