Coombs Test (Indirect)

Test Overview

Overview of the Coombs Test (Indirect) in Vizag

The Coombs test (indirect), also known as the Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT), is a blood test used to detect antibodies in the serum that may react with red blood cells. These antibodies are typically produced by the immune system in response to foreign red blood cells, such as in cases of a different blood type during transfusions or pregnancy.

The Coombs Test (Indirect) in Vizag is crucial for identifying these antibodies to prevent adverse reactions during blood transfusions and to monitor maternal-foetal compatibility during pregnancy. The Coombs test (indirect) plays an essential role in ensuring the safety of blood transfusions and managing pregnancies to protect the fetus from harmful maternal antibodies, thus preventing complications like haemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). Various diagnostic centers and hospitals in Vizag offer the test at different price points depending on the facility and services provided.

Price of the Coombs Test (Indirect) in Vizag

The indirect Coombs test price in Vizag can vary depending on factors such as the doctor, city, and the specific laboratory. Other elements, including the location of the facility, the type of equipment used, and the expertise of the staff, can also influence the final cost. On average, the Coombs test price in Vizag ranges from Rs 660 to Rs 760.

Apollo offers a Coombs Test (Indirect) test across many cities such as:

Tests Included in Coombs Test (Indirect) in Vizag

The Coombs test (indirect) in Vizag is a single test rather than a package of multiple tests, but it can be part of a broader set of tests used in immunohematology.

• Coombs Test (Indirect): The test involves isolating the serum from a blood sample and incubating it with non-patient RBCs of known antigenicity. Anti-human globulin (Coombs reagent) is then added to the mixture. If agglutination (clumping of RBCs) occurs, the test is positive, indicating the presence of antibodies against the RBCs.

The optional test includes:

• Titre: Based on the results, further testing may be required to identify the specific antibody and assess its clinical significance. These tests can include antibody identification, RBC phenotyping, and titration studies to determine the concentration of antibodies.

What Conditions Can Be Diagnosed with the Coombs Test (Indirect)?

The Coombs test (indirect) is used to diagnose and manage various conditions related to antibodies against red blood cells. The most common conditions that can be diagnosed with this test include:

• Haemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN): This condition occurs when maternal antibodies cross the placenta and attack the foetus's red blood cells. The test helps identify if the mother has harmful antibodies.
• Incompatible Blood Match: Before a blood transfusion, the test ensures that the recipient's blood does not contain antibodies that would react against the donated blood, preventing a transfusion reaction.
• Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia: While primarily diagnosed with the direct Coombs test, the indirect test can sometimes detect antibodies contributing to autoimmune haemolytic anaemia.
• Prenatal Antibody Screening: The test screens pregnant women for antibodies that could pose a risk to the foetus, allowing for early intervention and management.

Who Should Get the Coombs Test (Indirect) Done?

The indirect Coombs test in Vizag is typically performed on specific populations and under certain circumstances. Here are the key groups and situations where this test is recommended:

• Pregnant Women: Pregnant women, especially those with Rh-negative blood type, are screened during the first prenatal visit and again in the third trimester to check for antibodies that could affect the fetus (e.g., in cases of Rh incompatibility).  
• Blood Donors: Blood donors may undergo the indirect Coombs test to identify any antibodies that could react with donor red blood cells during transfusion.
• Patients Preparing for Blood Transfusion: Before a blood transfusion, the test is performed to ensure the recipient does not have antibodies that could react with the donated blood, preventing hemolytic transfusion reactions.
• Individuals with Autoimmune Disorders: Patients with conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other autoimmune disorders may be tested for antibodies against their own red blood cells.
• Patients with Hemolytic Anaemia: In cases of suspected hemolytic anaemia, the indirect Coombs test may be part of the workup to identify underlying antibodies contributing to the condition.

Neonates: Newborns with signs of hemolytic disease may be tested to determine if maternal antibodies are involved.

Coombs Test (Indirect) Requirements

To undergo the indirect Coombs test in Vizag, there are a few requirements to keep in mind:

• There are no dietary restrictions or special preparations needed before the test.
• A phlebotomist will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm or hand using a needle. You may feel a small prick, and there might be minor bleeding or bruising at the insertion site.
• After the blood is collected, the sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

What Treatments/Procedures can Require the Coombs Test (Indirect)?

The indirect Coombs test in Vizag is used in several medical contexts to guide treatment and management. Here are some medical treatments and procedures that may require this test:

• Blood Transfusions: Before a blood transfusion, the indirect Coombs test is performed to check for any antibodies in the recipient’s blood that could react with the donor's blood. This helps prevent hemolytic transfusion reactions.
• Management of Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN): In pregnant women, especially those who are Rh-negative, the test is done to assess the risk of HDN due to maternal antibodies. If antibodies are detected, closer monitoring and potential interventions (like intrauterine transfusions or early delivery) may be needed.
• Treatment of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia: While the direct Coombs test is more commonly used for diagnosing autoimmune hemolytic anaemia, the indirect test can help in identifying the specific antibodies involved, guiding treatment decisions like corticosteroids or immunosuppressive therapies.
• Evaluation for Organ Transplantation: Before organ transplantation, the indirect Coombs test can be part of the compatibility testing to ensure that the recipient does not have antibodies that could attack the donor organ.
• Fertility Treatments: In cases of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), the indirect Coombs test may be performed to check for Rh incompatibility between the mother and potential donor sperm, particularly if the mother is Rh-negative.
• Preoperative Assessment: In patients with known hemolytic anaemia or those at risk of hemolysis, the test may be conducted before surgery to evaluate potential transfusion needs and avoid complications.

Reports of the Coombs Test (Indirect) in Vizag

The Coombs test (indirect) in Vizag report typically presents the results as either positive or negative:

Note: The interpretation of these results can vary depending on the laboratory, age, sex, and underlying conditions.

Lifestyle Changes to Reach a Normal Range on the Coombs Test (Indirect)

• While lifestyle changes alone cannot directly impact the results of the Coombs test (indirect) in Vizag, as it primarily detects pre-existing antibodies, there are a few general considerations:
• Leading a healthy lifestyle can support the immune system and may help reduce the unnecessary production of antibodies.
  For individuals who have undergone multiple transfusions and developed antibodies, reducing the number of transfusions when possible can simplify finding compatible blood for future needs.
• For pregnant women, regular prenatal care and monitoring are essential for managing potential risks related to maternal antibodies and ensuring both maternal and fetal well-being.

Book a Coombs Test (Indirect) Online

Booking a Coombs test in Vizag through Apollo 24|7 is a simple and convenient process that can be completed online. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or download the app on your smartphone.
• Use the search function to find "Coombs Test (Indirect) in Vizag" or "Indirect Coombs Test in Vizag
• Select a suitable time slot and location for your blood sample collection.
• Complete the booking process by providing the necessary details and making the payment.
• Wait for a confirmation message from Apollo 24|7 regarding your indirect Coombs test.