Institute for Transfusion Medicine and Gene Therapy

Blood groups can be described as genetically determined characteristics of blood that are found principally in (red) blood cells. The knowledge of blood groups on red blood cells is mainly important for transfusion medicine (treatment with blood and blood components), transplantation medicine, obstetrics and pediatrics (hemolytic disease of the newborn, i.e. blood group incompatibility between mother and child) as well as for forensic medicine (pedigree identity assessment). Some immunohematological test methods performed in our laboratory have a high priority in the diagnosis of certain immunological disorders, such as autoimmunohemolysis, immunodeficiencies and immunothrombocytopenia.

Special immunohematological tests, such as antibody differentiation, antigen determination and titration of (auto-)antibodies, help to clarify certain conditions, indications and disease symptoms. For example, detection of irregular antibodies before and after transfusions and during pregnancy, selection of suitable red blood cells as well as titer monitoring after immunization, before and after AB0-incompatible living donor kidney transplantation, and before and after bone marrow transplantation.

In summary, a variety of blood products are stored for patients in the Blood Bank and our patient care mission includes a broad range of diagnostic, therapeutic and consulting services, flexible in routine, in  urgent and in emergency cases, in close contact with the physicians and nursing staff in direct patient care.