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Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) Crossmatch Test

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Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) Crossmatch Test

Short Name: CDC Crossmatch

Also known as: CDC Crossmatch, Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity Crossmatch, T-cell Crossmatch, B-cell Crossmatch

Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) Crossmatch Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹10,000. Uses Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) assay on Blood samples. Results in Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after the sample reaches the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Immunological Crossmatch🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The primary purpose of the CDC Crossmatch is to prevent hyperacute rejection, a rapid and irreversible immune response that can occur within minutes to hours after transplantation. By detecting donor-specific antibodies in the recipient's serum, the test helps transplant teams select compatible donor-recipient pairs, thereby improving graft survival and patient outcomes. It is also used to monitor sensitized patients, such as those who have had previous transplants, blood transfusions, or pregnancies, who may have developed antibodies against HLA antigens. Additionally, the test can be performed post-transplant to evaluate suspected antibody-mediated rejection.

Test Code
6295
CPT Code
86816
ICD Code
Z52.9
Price
₹10,000
Sample Type
Blood
Result Time
Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Complement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) assay
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially immunosuppressants or recent blood transfusions.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort.

Step 3

Report Delivery

You may resume normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions after the test.

Timeline: Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after the sample reaches the laboratory.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. However, inform your doctor about any recent blood transfusions, pregnancies, or previous transplants, as these can affect the test results.
2
During the Test:A blood sample is drawn from your arm. The procedure is routine and takes only a few minutes.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities immediately. There are no side effects or restrictions.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of the CDC Crossmatch is to prevent hyperacute rejection, a rapid and irreversible immune response that can occur within minutes to hours after transplantation. By detecting donor-specific antibodies in the recipient's serum, the test helps transplant teams select compatible donor-recipient pairs, thereby improving graft survival and patient outcomes. It is also used to monitor sensitized patients, such as those who have had previous transplants, blood transfusions, or pregnancies, who may have developed antibodies against HLA antigens. Additionally, the test can be performed post-transplant to evaluate suspected antibody-mediated rejection.

How to Prepare

  • No fasting required
  • Avoid blood transfusion for at least 72 hours before the test, if possible
  • Inform the lab if you have had a recent transplant, transfusion, or pregnancy
  • Ensure the sample is collected in a plain red-top tube and transported to the lab within 24 hours

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"The CDC crossmatch is a critical pre-transplant test that detects preformed donor-specific antibodies. A positive result indicates a high risk of hyperacute rejection, and the transplant is typically contraindicated. This test is essential for ensuring patient safety and improving graft survival."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeBlood
Sample Volume5 mL
ContainerPlain red-top tube (serum)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Serum: stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C
Serum: stable for 1 month at -20°C
Donor cells: must be processed within 24 hours of collection
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed or lipemic sample
  • Clotted sample
  • Sample received after 24 hours of collection
  • Improperly labeled sample

Understanding Your Results

The CDC crossmatch result is reported as negative or positive. A negative result indicates that no donor-specific antibodies are detected, and the transplant can proceed with a low risk of hyperacute rejection. A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies that can cause complement-mediated lysis of donor cells, and the transplant is generally contraindicated. The interpretation should be done by a transplant immunologist in the context of the recipient's sensitization history and the transplant center's protocols.
📊

Compatible; low risk of hyperacute rejection. Transplant can proceed.

📊

High risk of hyperacute rejection; transplant is contraindicated.

📊

May be due to anti-HLA class II antibodies or autoantibodies; requires further evaluation. Some centers may proceed with desensitization or consider the result as a relative contraindication.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you are scheduled for a transplant and your CDC crossmatch result is positive, your transplant team will discuss the implications and possible alternatives, such as desensitization therapy or finding another donor. If you experience symptoms of rejection after a transplant (fever, pain, swelling, decreased organ function), contact your transplant coordinator immediately.

Limitations

  • CDC crossmatch is less sensitive than flow cytometry or solid-phase assays; low-level antibodies may be missed
  • Positive B-cell crossmatch may not always be clinically significant, especially if due to autoantibodies
  • The test requires viable donor lymphocytes; if donor cells are not available, the test cannot be performed
  • Results are qualitative and do not quantify antibody strength
  • Interpretation requires correlation with clinical history and other tests

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk of bruising or bleeding at the puncture site
  • Rare risk of infection or hematoma

Interfering Factors

  • Recent blood transfusion (within 72 hours) may cause false positive due to alloantibodies
  • Hemolyzed or lipemic serum samples may interfere with the assay
  • Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., rituximab) may affect B-cell crossmatch results
  • Improper sample handling or storage may reduce cell viability
  • High background cytotoxicity due to non-specific factors

Compare With Similar Tests

TestComplement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) CrossmatchFlow Cytometry Crossmatch
ComparisonComplement-Dependent Cytotoxicity (CDC) CrossmatchFlow cytometry is more sensitive than CDC and can detect lower levels of antibodies. It also provides quantitative data. However, CDC is more specific for complement-activating antibodies, which are most relevant for hyperacute rejection. Many centers use both tests for comprehensive evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of CDC Crossmatch test in India?
The cost of CDC Crossmatch test at DNA Labs India is INR 10,000. This includes home sample collection and online report.
What is the CDC Crossmatch test used for?
It is used to determine compatibility between an organ donor and recipient before transplantation, to prevent hyperacute rejection.
How is the CDC Crossmatch test performed?
Recipient serum is mixed with donor lymphocytes and complement. If antibodies are present, complement activation causes cell lysis, indicating a positive result.
What does a positive CDC Crossmatch mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of donor-specific antibodies that can cause hyperacute rejection, so the transplant is usually not performed.
Is fasting required for the CDC Crossmatch test?
No, fasting is not required for this test.
What sample is needed for the CDC Crossmatch test?
A blood sample from the recipient (serum) and donor lymphocytes are required. The donor cells are usually provided by the transplant team.
How long does it take to get CDC Crossmatch results?
Results are typically available within 24-48 hours after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Can I get a home sample collection for CDC Crossmatch?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings.
What is the difference between T-cell and B-cell crossmatch?
T-cell crossmatch detects antibodies against class I HLA antigens, while B-cell crossmatch detects antibodies against class II HLA antigens. Both are important for transplant compatibility.
Are there any risks associated with the CDC Crossmatch test?
The test is safe with minimal risks like bruising or infection at the blood draw site.
Can medications affect the CDC Crossmatch result?
Yes, immunosuppressive drugs like rituximab can affect B-cell crossmatch results. Inform your doctor about all medications.
What should I do if my CDC Crossmatch is positive?
Your transplant team will discuss the results and options, such as desensitization therapy or finding a different donor.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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