Absence of ABH antigens on neutrophils

Many investigators have concluded that polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) express ABH antigens in parallel to red cells (RBC). We have examined human PMN for ABH antigens using human isoantibodies and mouse monoclonal antibodies with three highly sensitive and specific two-stage assay systems: fluorescence flow cytometry, immunofluorescence microscopy, and avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase microscopy. In all three assays the ABH antigens could not be detected on the surface of PMN. Previous reports alleging that ABH antigens occur on PMN probably represent false positive reactions due to inherent technical problems.