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Coombs Test - Indirect

Coombs Test - Indirect

Also referred as
Indirect antiglobulin test
495+ booked recently
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The Coombs Test - Indirect is a blood test that is used to detect IgG antibodies against red blood cells (RBCs). It is often done during prenatal testing of pregnant women and before a blood transfusion. It assists in identifying blood compatibility problems that could lead to complications like hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), transfusion reactions etc., or diagnose autoimmune hemolytic anemia and monitor individuals with autoimmune disorders.

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Understanding Coombs Test - Indirect

The Coombs Test - Indirect, also known as the indirect antiglobulin test (IAT), looks for antibodies in the blood that may react with RBCs, causing immune-related complications. It helps identify antibodies that are freely floating in the bloodstream, which can potentially bind to RBCs. 

The indirect Coombs test is used to screen for blood type compatibility, especially during pregnancy to detect IgG antibodies that are likely to pass on into the fetal blood via placenta leading to hemolytic disease of the newborn(HDN). It checks for Rh incompatibility between the mother and the fetus. Also, it is done in crossmatch screening for blood transfusion to prevent immune reactions and if someone has a blood disorder to identify any harmful antibodies that could be present. 

The Coombs Test - Indirect helps identify antibodies early which supports safe blood transfusion practices between the donor and the recipient and pregnancy management, safeguarding both the mother and the baby.

No special preparation is required for this test. However, a duly Filled Coombs (Direct/Indirect) Form is mandatory. Inform your doctor about all the medications or supplements that you may be taking as these could affect the test results, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test. 

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Interpretation of the test results requires professional expertise. Therefore, do not self-medicate and always consult your doctor to understand your test results correctly. Narrate your complete medical history to help doctors relate your clinical and laboratory findings. 

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What does Coombs Test - Indirect measure?

The Coombs Test - Indirect measures the presence of antibodies in a person's serum that can react with specific antigens on red blood cells. These antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to perceived threats, such as foreign blood group antigens or altered self-antigens in autoimmune conditions. A positive test result suggests the presence of potentially incompatible antibodies, prompting doctors to conduct careful blood type matching before any transfusion.

Furthermore, this test is vital in diagnosing autoimmune hemolytic anemia, where the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own red blood cells. By revealing the presence of autoantibodies, the Coombs Indirect Test aids in formulating appropriate treatment plans. Overall, the test is essential not only for ensuring safe blood transfusions but also for managing various conditions related to antibody-mediated red blood cell destruction, thus safeguarding individuals' health.

FAQs related to Coombs Test - Indirect

The Coombs Test - Indirect is primarily used to detect antibodies in a person's serum that could react with red blood cells, assessing the risk of hemolytic transfusion reactions and diagnosing autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
This test may be recommended if you have symptoms of autoimmune haemolytic anemia such as fatigue, pale skin, and shortness of breath; history of haemolytic disease of the newborn or a positive antibody screen during pregnancy; or in case of unexplained anemia or jaundice or family history of hemolytic anemia.
The test involves mixing a sample of the patient’s serum with red blood cells that have known antigens. If antibodies are present, they will bind to the red blood cells, which can then be detected through additional reagents.
The Coombs Test - Indirect is minimally invasive and involves only a blood draw. Generally, there are no significant risks, but as with any blood test, some individuals may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the site of the needle.
The Direct Coombs test is done to detect the presence of antibodies that are directed against one's own RBCs that occur in cases of autoimmune diseases. The Indirect Coombs test helps to detect the presence of RBC antibodies that are external. The antibodies detected by the Direct Coombs test are present on the surface of RBCs while the antibodies detected by the Indirect Coombs test are found in the serum.
Yes, this test is commonly used during pregnancy to screen for antibodies in the mother’s blood that might affect the fetus, especially in cases of Rh incompatibility.
Blood compatibility testing is crucial to ensure that the recipient’s immune system will not attack the transfused blood, which can lead to serious complications.
A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies that could lead to hemolytic reactions, suggesting the need for careful blood type matching before transfusion or further investigation of autoimmune conditions.
A negative result suggests that no significant antibodies are present in the serum, indicating a lower risk of transfusion reactions and typically supporting safe blood transfusion practices.
The Coombs Test - Indirect is frequently used in transfusion medicine, particularly for patients with complex blood type histories, as well as in obstetric care to prevent Rh incompatibility in pregnant women.
Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.
Content created by
Written by:
Dr. Lipika Khurana
BDS, PGDHHM
Reviewed by:
Dr. Hitesh Tiwari
MD Pathology, MBBS
Want to know moreRead our editorial policy
Last Updated22nd Nov 2025

Coombs Test - Indirect test price for other cities

Price inBangaloreRs. 619
Price inNew DelhiRs. 479
Price inHyderabadRs. 380
Price inKolkataRs. 479
Price inGhaziabadRs. 510

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Contains 1 test
Coombs Test - Indirect