Blood grouping reagents come in two major types: monoclonal and polyclonal. Each offers unique benefits based on testing needs. Monoclonal reagents are produced from a single clone of cells, providing consistent and highly specific antibody activity. They are less likely to react with unrelated antigens, reducing false positives.

Polyclonal reagents, on the other hand, contain a mixture of antibodies produced by different immune cells. This diversity can sometimes enhance sensitivity, especially when detecting weak antigen expressions. However, polyclonal reagents may show broader reactivity, requiring careful interpretation.

Choosing between monoclonal and polyclonal reagents depends on laboratory preferences, sensitivity requirements, and regulatory standards. Many laboratories use monoclonal reagents for routine ABO and Rh typing due to their reproducibility. Polyclonal reagents may be preferred for specialized tests requiring enhanced detection capabilities.