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Coombs Test, Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT)
No special precautions
Sample Type
Blood
Recommended for
Male, Female
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Within 24 Hours
Blood test at Home
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Coombs Test, Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT) Details in Brief
| Also Known As | Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT), Coombs Test – Indirect |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Detects free antibodies in your blood serum that can react with red blood cells and cause haemolytic anaemia or transfusion reactions |
| Preparation | No special preparation required |
| Fasting | Fasting not required |
| Reporting Time | Same day |
| Cost | 880 |
What Is an Indirect Coombs Test?
The Indirect Coombs Test, also known as the Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT), is a blood test that checks for free antibodies in your bloodstream that may attack red blood cells. These antibodies, if present, can lead to conditions such as haemolytic anaemia, transfusion reactions, or haemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN).
At Metropolis Lab, this test is performed using Automated Column Agglutination Technology (CAT) for accurate and reliable detection of antibodies. It is commonly done before blood transfusions or during pregnancy for Rh-negative women.
What Does an Indirect Coombs Test Measure?
This test identifies antibodies circulating freely in your serum that may react with red blood cells under certain conditions. It helps:
- Detect antibodies that can cause blood transfusion reactions
- Screen for Rh incompatibility during pregnancy
- Diagnose autoimmune or drug-induced haemolytic anaemia
- Investigate unexplained anaemia or jaundice
- Ensure compatibility before blood transfusion (cross-matching)
- Evaluate suspected immune reactions affecting red blood cells
Indirect Coombs Test: Who Needs It and Why It’s Done
What Symptoms May Call for an Indirect Coombs Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience:
- Unexplained anaemia or fatigue
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark-coloured urine
- History of transfusion reactions
- Pregnancy complications or previous miscarriages
Who Should Get an Indirect Coombs Test?
This test is especially advised for:
- Patients preparing for or having undergone blood transfusions
- Pregnant women, especially those with Rh-negative blood type
- Individuals with suspected autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
- Patients on certain medications linked to haemolysis
- Newborns of Rh-negative mothers for screening haemolytic risk
Why Is an Indirect Coombs Test Done?
The Indirect Coombs Test detects harmful antibodies before they cause problems. It helps ensure blood compatibility before transfusion, assess maternal-fetal Rh incompatibility, and diagnose immune-mediated anaemia early for prompt treatment.
Importance of an Indirect Coombs Test
The Indirect Coombs Test is a vital safety step in blood transfusions and prenatal care. It helps prevent serious immune reactions by identifying antibodies that could destroy red blood cells. For pregnant women, it safeguards the baby by detecting antibodies that might cross the placenta and damage fetal blood cells.
Indirect Coombs Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare
How to Book the Indirect Coombs Test and Get Your Reports
- Simple Online Booking
Book your Indirect Coombs Test quickly through the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Choose a time slot for home collection or visit your nearest Metropolis Lab. - Safe Home Sample Collection
Our trained phlebotomists visit your home to collect the blood sample while following strict hygiene and safety protocols. - Sample Tracking Updates
Stay updated throughout the process – from collection to report delivery – via the Metropolis Healthcare app or website. - Accurate Laboratory Testing
Your sample is processed at NABL & CAP accredited Metropolis Labs using Automated Column Agglutination Technology (CAT) for reliable results. - Quick & Easy Reports
Reports are shared promptly through email, WhatsApp, or can be downloaded directly from the Metropolis Healthcare platform.
Is Home Sample Collection for Indirect Coombs Test Available Near You?
Yes, Metropolis Healthcare offers home sample collection for the Indirect Coombs Test. Our phlebotomists ensure safe, comfortable and contactless collection right at your doorstep, making the process convenient and stress-free.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Indirect Coombs Test Report?
Reports are usually available the same day once your sample reaches the Metropolis Lab.
Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location.
Where Can I See or Get Indirect Coombs Test Results?
You can view or download your test reports easily via the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Reports are also shared via email or WhatsApp, or you can collect a physical copy from your nearest Metropolis Lab.
Interpreting Indirect Coombs Test Results
What Your Indirect Coombs Test Results May Indicate
|
Parameter |
Normal Result |
Abnormal Result |
Interpretation |
|
Indirect Coombs Test (IAT) |
Negative |
Positive |
A negative result means no antibodies are present. A positive result indicates antibodies that may cause haemolysis, incompatibility, or immune reaction. |
Understanding Abnormal Indirect Coombs Test Results by Parameter
|
Result |
Possible Indication |
|
Positive Test |
Suggests haemolytic disease of the newborn, blood transfusion incompatibility, or autoimmune haemolytic anaemia. |
|
Negative Test |
Indicates absence of harmful antibodies; blood is compatible for transfusion. |
How Should You Prepare for an Indirect Coombs Test?
The Indirect Coombs Test is simple and requires minimal preparation:
- No fasting required – you can eat and drink normally.
- Inform your doctor about any previous transfusions or medications.
- Share your medical and pregnancy history, if relevant.
- Stay relaxed and well hydrated before the test.
How Is an Indirect Coombs Test Done? (Step-by-Step Procedure)
The Indirect Coombs Test is performed using a routine blood draw:
- Preparation: A tourniquet is tied around your arm to make veins more visible.
- Cleaning: The puncture site is cleaned using antiseptic.
- Sample Collection: A sterile needle draws about 3 ml of blood into a gel vacutainer.
- Completion: The needle is removed, and a bandage is applied.
- Processing: Your serum is mixed with reagent red blood cells, followed by Coombs reagent. If agglutination occurs, antibodies are present.
Conditions That May Affect Indirect Coombs Test Accuracy
Several factors can influence test accuracy:
- Recent blood transfusions can alter antibody levels.
- Certain drugs may interfere and cause false positives.
- Autoimmune disorders can influence antibody concentration.
- Pregnancy-related antibodies may appear temporarily.
Diseases That an Indirect Coombs Test Can Help Detect
- Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia
- Haemolytic disease of the newborn (erythroblastosis fetalis)
- Blood transfusion incompatibility
- Drug-induced haemolysis
- Immune-mediated anaemia
Indirect Coombs Test Price in Different Cities
The cost of a Indirect Coombs Test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate price range for the Indirect Coombs Test at Metropolis Healthcare in major Indian cities:
|
City |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
₹ 600 to ₹ 800 |
|
|
₹ 600 to ₹ 800 |
|
|
₹ 600 to ₹ 800 |
|
|
₹ 600 to ₹ 800 |
The Indirect Coombs Test cost may vary depending on the city and the specific tests included in the panel. However, Metropolis Healthcare offers competitive Indirect Coombs Test prices across major cities in India.
References
- Coombs, R.R.A., Mourant, A.E., & Race, R.R. (1945). A new test for the detection of weak and incomplete anti-Rh agglutinins. British Journal of Experimental Pathology, 26(5), 255–266. PMID: 21007245
- Hadley, A.G. (1998). Clinical significance of the indirect antiglobulin test. Transfusion Medicine Reviews, 12(2), 93–102. PMID: 9606872
- Dean, L. (2005). Blood Groups and Red Cell Antigens. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), Bethesda, MD. PMID: 20301292
- Zou, S., Dodd, R.Y., Stramer, S.L., Strong, D.M., & Musavi, F. (2012). Current incidence and residual risk of transfusion-transmitted infections in the United States. Transfusion, 52(2), 398–407. PMID: 21884940
Coombs Test, Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT) Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Coombs Test, Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT) with a clear pricing structure.
The Coombs Test, Indirect Antiglobulin Test (IAT) Price in Mumbai is ₹ 880 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
It detects free antibodies in your bloodstream that may react with red blood cells, causing haemolysis or transfusion reactions.
Yes, it ensures that the donor blood is compatible with your own, preventing adverse
To check if an Rh-negative mother has developed antibodies against her baby’s Rh-positive blood cells.
No fasting is required for this test.
A blood sample is collected from your arm and analysed using Automated Column Agglutination Technology (CAT).
It means antibodies are present that can react with red blood cells, indicating possible incompatibility or immune disorder.
Minimal risks such as slight bruising or mild discomfort at the needle site.
A normal result is negative, meaning no harmful antibodies were detected.
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We offer a comprehensive range of 4000+ clinical laboratory tests and profiles, which are used for prediction, early detection, diagnostic screening, confirmation and/or monitoring of the disease.
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