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The indirect coombs test, also called the Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT), is a general test conducted to detect antibodies in the serum that may react against red blood cells. The test plays a vital role in diagnosing conditions like hemolytic anemia, autoimmune diseases, and incompatibilities in blood transfusions. This test finds free-floating antibodies in the serum compared to the direct Coombs test, which finds antibodies affixed to red blood cells.
If incompatible blood is transfused or during pregnancy, these antibodies may result in immunological responses. To make sure there are no dangerous antibodies that could assault red blood cells, it is frequently used in prenatal testing and pre-transfusion screening.
There could be different reasons why doctors may prescribe the ICT Coombs test. Some of these are-
To determine compatibility before receiving a blood transfusion
To check the recipient's blood for unexpected antibodies
To keep an eye out for Rh incompatibility in expectant mothers
To determine the fetus's or newborn's risk of hemolytic illness
When transfusion responses have occurred in the past or when anemia cannot be explained
Besides, the indirect coombs test can be used for different purposes-
Blood transfusions: Ensure the receiver and donor are compatible to avoid negative responses.
Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN): Identifies maternal antibodies that may cause the fetus's red blood cells to be destroyed.
Autoimmune Disorders: Identifies autoimmune hemolytic anemia and associated disorders.
When evaluating the Indirect Coombs Test result, doctors check for the presence of antibodies in the serum binding red blood cells. The result could be either positive or negative.
Negative Result
If the test is negative, then there is no presence of antibodies to the red blood cells.
Positive Result
The positive result shows the presence of antibodies working against red blood cells. This also indicates-
High risk of transfusion reactions
Incompatibility of Rh during pregnancy
Presence of alloantibodies due to previous transfusions or exposure
There are two ways, indirect Coombs test is performed-
Blood Sample Collection: The clinician would collect a small blood sample from the arm. Blood is drawn into a sterile vial and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Laboratory Analysis: In the lab, red blood cells or plasma are mixed with Coombs reagent to check for agglutination (clumping).
There is no special procedure required to undergo the test. You need to provide complete medical details and current medication. Results may be impacted by some drugs, such as methyldopa or penicillin. So, it is best to inform the doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Indirect Coombs Test used for?
Is fasting required before the test?
What is the ICT Blood Test Cost?