Coombs

Coombs test is a medical test used to detect certain antibodies that can cause hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells). There are two types of Coombs tests: the direct Coombs test and the indirect Coombs test.

Direct Coombs test

The direct Coombs test is used to detect antibodies that are attached to the surface of red blood cells. These antibodies can sometimes cause autoimmune hemolytic anemia, a condition in which the immune system mistakenly destroys its own red blood cells.

Indirect Coombs test

The indirect Coombs test is used to detect antibodies that are present in the serum of a patient. This test is often used in blood transfusion medicine to determine if a patient has antibodies that could react with donor blood cells.

Uses

Coombs tests are used in a variety of clinical situations, including:

• Diagnosing autoimmune hemolytic anemia
• Testing for Rh factor in pregnant women
• Screening for antibodies in people who are about to receive a blood transfusion

Procedure

The procedure for a Coombs test involves taking a blood sample from the patient. The blood is then mixed with a reagent that contains anti-human globulin. If the patient's blood cells clump together when mixed with the reagent, the test is positive.

Risks

As with any blood test, there are some risks associated with a Coombs test. These can include:

• Bleeding or bruising at the site where the blood was drawn
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Infection

See also

• Hemolytic disease of the newborn
• Blood transfusion
• Autoimmune disease

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