Tissue Type Test

Histocompatibility Testing, HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen), Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)

Results

A tissue type test is a blood test that measures substances called antigens on the surface of body cells and tissues. Checking the antigens can tell if donor tissue is safe (compatible) for transplant to another person.

• For organ or tissue transplants, the results of tissue type show whether the donated tissue matches. The antigen pattern match is different for each type of transplant. For example, the match for a bone marrow transplant needs to be closer than the match needed for a kidney transplant.
• To check family relationships, the more alike the antigen patterns are, the more likely it is that the two people are related.
• To find a specific antigen of some diseases, the more likely that the disease is present.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA	Last Updated: December 4, 2006
Medical Review:	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine Joseph O'Donnell, MD - Hematology/Oncology
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