Which antibodies are best identified by the indirect antiglobulin test in the Kidd blood group system?

The indirect antiglobulin test (IAT) is particularly effective in detecting antibodies in the Kidd blood group system. This is because the antibodies associated with this system (Jka and Jkb) are known for their ability to be identified more reliably when red blood cells (RBCs) are sensitized with this test.

The reason for the enhanced detection through the IAT lies in the nature of Kidd antibodies. When the IAT is performed, it allows for the interaction between the antibodies in the serum and the corresponding antigens on the RBCs. The IAT involves adding a reagent that contains anti-human globulin, which facilitates the agglutination of RBCs if they have been coated with antibodies. Kidd antibodies often require this indirect method for optimal identification because they may not demonstrate strong reactivity in direct testing methods.

By comparison, the other options do not adequately capture the characteristics of Kidd antibodies. The option stating that Kidd antibodies could react predominantly in saline does not highlight the specific detection advantage provided by the IAT. Similarly, while some antibodies may react better with enzyme-treated RBCs, Kidd antibodies are more reliably detected using the IAT approach. Finally, although Kidd antibodies can cause hemolytic transfusion reactions, this feature does not