1990 cell typings in the International Cell Exchange

Area of Science:

• Immunogenetics
• Histocompatibility Antigen Typing

Background:

• The International Cell Exchange facilitates yearly performance evaluation for participating laboratories through cell typing summaries.
• In 1990, 292 laboratories participated, analyzing 40 Class I and 20 Class II antigens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the annual summary for 1990 typings, detailing detection percentages and discrepancy rates for HLA Class I and Class II antigens.
• To compare laboratory performance and identify trends in antigen detection accuracy.
• To report on the identification of new cell variants and the impact of DNA typing integration.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of yearly cell typing data from 292 international laboratories for 1990.
• Determination of mean detection percentages and ranges for WHO-designated and provisional antigens.
• Calculation of percent discrepancy rates for HLA-A,B antigens and overall Class I antigens.
• Inclusion of DNA typing results for Class II antigen confirmation.

Main Results:

• Seventeen WHO Class I antigens showed ≥95% detection; most others showed ≥90% agreement, except B38.
• WHO-provisional antigens exhibited more detection variation, though some achieved ≥90% average detection.
• Total discrepancy rates for Class I antigens decreased significantly compared to 1988 and 1989.
• Improved detection was noted for 23 Class II antigens, with at least 9 showing ≥90% agreement.
• DNA typing confirmed Class II antigen splits and variants, with 145 serology and 7 DNA labs participating.

Conclusions:

• The 1990 International Cell Exchange data indicates improved accuracy in HLA antigen typing, particularly for Class I antigens.
• The integration of DNA typing has enhanced the confirmation and clarification of Class II antigen specificities.
• Continuous participation and data analysis are crucial for maintaining and improving typing standards in the global immunology community.