Laboratory scientists caution that conducting a genotype test shortly after receiving a blood transfusion may lead to unreliable results.

They recommend waiting at least six months before taking the test to ensure accurate results.

This warning comes in light of increased reports of inconsistent genotype test outcomes shared on social media platforms.

For instance, on X (formerly Twitter), a user named Efe Johnson expressed bewilderment at receiving conflicting genotype results compared to previous tests.

“How many times did you all say we need to take the genotype/blood group tests, again? I just got the shock of my life. Has my whole life been a lie? I got a different result from what I’ve always thought, and I’m wondering what the rationale behind taking different tests is.

“Doesn’t that just complicate things further? Someone just said they took three tests and all were different?”

Johnson questioned how she could determine the correct genotype despite discrepancies, while Ibadan Baker (Nike) expressed shock and disappointment upon discovering differences in her genotype results.

Despite believing her genotype was AS for years, a recent test showed her genotype as AA on March 19, 2024.

“I’m AA. So what happened to the guys I had let go because of genotype?” she questioned.

A British scientific journal, Nature.com, defines genotype as an organism’s complete set of genes, representing its genetic makeup.

Additionally, the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy explains genotype as the specific part of DNA that contains genetic information, inherited from parents.

There are five primary genotypes: AA, AS, SS, AC, and SC.

Medical experts note that AA and AS are normal genotypes, while SS and SC are associated with sickle cell disease.

Sickle cell disease is a prevalent genetic condition in Nigeria, affecting over 40 million people and representing a significant global burden of the disorder.

It is reported that approximately 150,000 sickle cell babies are born in Nigeria annually, with a substantial number dying before the age of five.

Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that over 300,000 babies with severe forms of Sickle Cell Disease are born each year.

To combat sickle cell anaemia, genotype testing is now mandatory for couples planning to marry in Nigeria, as per a decision by the House of Representatives in 2019.

Legislation requires religious bodies and government registries to ensure that couples undergo compulsory genotype tests before marriage.

In 2019, the Anambra State House of Assembly passed a law prohibiting marriages between individuals affected by sickle cell anaemia.

However, there have been concerns raised about some couples receiving conflicting genotype test results due to the use of unaccredited labs and unqualified personnel.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria, Adeyinka Adedire, explained that inconsistencies in test results could also occur if a person undergoes a genotype test shortly after a blood transfusion, as genetic material from the donor may impact the outcome of the test.

“If someone has recently received a blood transfusion, remnants of the transfused blood may remain in their system for a few days or up to three months. Consequently, undergoing a genotype test in a laboratory lacking qualified lab scientists may yield inaccurate results.

“There is a risk that some of the donor’s genotypes could still be detectable in the patient. However, if a qualified medical laboratory scientist handles such samples, specific procedures must be undertaken on the blood before conducting the genotype testing,” Adedire stated.

He mentioned that many labs in Nigeria use manual methods for genotype testing due to a lack of skilled expertise in this area.

Adedire pointed out that the hiring of unqualified individuals, such as graduates in unrelated fields, to conduct medical tests is a common practice.

He clarified that only registered and licensed medical laboratory scientists should perform diagnostic tests to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Adedire highlighted the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria’s efforts to inform the public about the dangers of using unregulated labs staffed by unqualified individuals for medical testing.

He called on the government to enforce laws that restrict medical laboratory diagnosis to authorized bodies and recommended that individuals verify the credentials of healthcare facilities before using their services.

He stated “Always request for the license of whoever is practising there. As a citizen, you have a right to request evidence that shows that the person is licensed by the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria to render such services.”

He recommended that individuals with conflicting genotype results should go to a government hospital and present all their test results to have the tests conducted independently. This way, special considerations can be given to those samples, ensuring the most accurate results are obtained. He advised them not to lose hope.

Sirajudeen Shuaib, a Medical Laboratory Scientist and CEO of DE-LIGHT Health Care, attributed inconsistent test results to laboratory errors and the incompetence of the professionals involved. He emphasized that a person’s genotype remains constant and is determined at a young age.

Shuaib expressed concern about the growing number of laboratories operated by unqualified personnel, calling it embarrassing. He advised people to be careful about where they get their medical tests done, stressing the importance of choosing reputable and accredited healthcare facilities.

He highlighted the significance of verifying the credentials and accreditation of healthcare facilities to ensure the quality and reliability of the services they offer.

Individuals should be careful about the type of laboratories and hospitals they patronize. Many labs are not following proper procedures. Conducting a medical lab test is crucial, but timing is even more critical.

“Having three different results is embarrassing because the third one should clarify the previous two. If it doesn’t, it indicates errors from the lab practitioner who conducted the test. Giving a wrong genotype test result can damage relationships. That’s why only experienced personnel should run such tests,” Shuaib added.

WAKADAILY discovered that ,  a senior medical laboratory scientist at a private medical laboratory raised concerns about potential factors leading to inconsistent test results.

The scientist, who chose to remain anonymous, highlighted issues such as mislabeling of test samples and the importance of scientists verifying results for accuracy.

Additionally, the scientist issued a warning about the rise of fake laboratories and advised individuals to ensure the legitimacy of private labs before getting tested.

She stated “Ensure that the labs are well-established and have been operating for many years. If you notice that a lab only opens in the evening, it’s likely they are quack and unprofessional in their operations. There could be numerous issues with such labs.”