What result should be reported to the transplant surgeon for a patient awaiting a kidney transplant?

Get ready for the Immunology and HIV Test with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

The outcome that should be communicated to the transplant surgeon in this scenario is the result of the patient-donor crossmatching, which being positive indicates that there is a reaction between the patient's antibodies and the donor's antigen. A positive crossmatch suggests that the patient's immune system may recognize the donor organ as foreign, increasing the risk of acute rejection after the transplant. Therefore, it is vital information for the surgical team to proceed with the transplant safely, as it may lead to reconsideration or modification of the transplant plan.

In the context of the other options, while knowing the Rh factor (with the patient being Rh positive and the donor Rh negative) is relevant for blood transfusions, it does not directly influence the transplant decision like crossmatching results do. Having six antigen matches in HLA typing can be a positive indicator of compatibility, but it does not guarantee acceptance without considering the crossmatch. Lastly, a low percentage of panel of reactive antibodies (PRA) is generally favorable as it indicates fewer pre-existing antibodies against potential donors; however, this alone does not provide the immediate and critical insight needed regarding the specific donor-patient pair in question. Thus, the status of the crossmatch takes precedence in the context of kidney transplantation.

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