What is an indirect Antiglobulin test?

The indirect antiglobulin test (IAT; indirect Coombs test) is performed by adding patient plasma to test RBCs followed by the addition of anti-human globulin. In either case, the presence of an anti-RBC antibody (autoantibody or alloantibody) causes RBCs to be agglutinated when the anti-human globulin is added.

What does a positive indirect antiglobulin test indicate?

Indirect Coombs test. A positive test result means that your blood is incompatible with the donor’s blood and you can’t receive blood from that person.

What is the indication of indirect Antiglobulin test?

The indirect Coombs test, also referred to as the indirect antiglobulin test (IAT), is used to detect in-vitro antibody-antigen reactions. It is used to detect very low concentrations of antibodies present in a patient’s plasma/serum prior to a blood transfusion.

What does the indirect Coombs test detect?

The indirect Coombs test finds certain antibodies that are in the liquid part of your blood (serum). These antibodies can attack red blood cells but are not attached to your red blood cells. The indirect Coombs test is commonly done to find antibodies in a recipient’s or donor’s blood before a transfusion.

When do you need an indirect antiglobulin test?

Indirect Antiglobulin Test. An Indirect Antiglobulin Test is particularly used to screen the blood for antibodies that are directed against the antigens present in the red blood cells. This is a mandatory test performed right before a blood transfusion takes place.

How does the direct antiglobulin test ( DAT ) work?

The direct antiglobulin test (DAT) determines whether your red blood cells (RBCs) circulating in the bloodstream are covered with antibodies. The antibodies that are attached to the surface of the RBCs are responsible for their destruction.

What kind of blood test is indirect Coombs?

Serologic test used in all transfusion services and reference labs; also known as the “Indirect Coombs” test or the simple abbreviation, “IAT.” This test is done to detect antibody and/or complement coating red cells following incubation with serum or plasma in the laboratory…

Can a direct antiglobulin test be done on a pregnant woman?

In such a case your doctor may also order a direct antiglobulin test which aims to investigate the cause of a reaction between the two blood types which results in the clumping. Indirect antiglobulin testing may also be conducted in pregnant women to check for antibodies in the mother’s blood.