Indirect Coombs Test (ICT)

• Diagnostic Method: Antiglobulin test
• Target Antibodies: Free antibodies in the serum that can bind to red blood cells (RBCs)
• Specimen Type: Serum
• Testing Timeframe: Typically completed within a few hours
• Purpose: To detect antibodies that may cause immune-mediated hemolysis
• Clinical Relevance: Used in pre-transfusion testing, Rh incompatibility in pregnancy, and autoimmune hemolytic anaemia diagnosis

• Blood Transfusion Compatibility: Ensures compatibility between donor and recipient blood
• Pregnancy Monitoring: Detects Rh antibodies in Rh-negative pregnant women to prevent hemolytic disease in the newborn
• Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Diagnosis: Identifies autoantibodies against RBCs
• Pre-Transfusion Testing: Detects potential alloantibodies in the recipient's blood
• Immune System Evaluation: Assesses antibody-mediated immune responses

• Antibodies Detected: Free antibodies in the patient's serum that can bind to RBC antigens
• Assay Components: Patient serum, test RBCs (sensitized or unsensitized), anti-human globulin reagent (Coombs reagent)
• Controls: Positive and negative controls to validate test accuracy
• Standards: Reference sera for quality control and standardization

• Positive Result: Indicates the presence of antibodies that can bind to RBCs, suggesting potential for hemolytic reactions
• Negative Result: No antibodies detected that bind to RBCs, suggesting low risk of hemolytic reactions
• Equivocal Result: Ambiguous outcome requiring repeat testing or further analysis
• Clinical Correlation: Must be interpreted alongside patient history, clinical symptoms, and other diagnostic tests
• Antibody Identification: Further testing may be required to identify specific antibodies detected

• Positive: Presence of free antibodies in serum that can bind to RBC antigens, indicating potential for immune-mediated hemolysis
• Negative: Absence of free antibodies that bind to RBC antigens, indicating low risk for immune-mediated hemolysis
• Quantitative Value: Usually qualitative; some labs may report titers if significant antibodies are detected
• Interpretative Report: Detailed analysis provided by the laboratory, including clinical implications

Q: What does the Indirect Coombs Test (ICT) detect?
It detects free antibodies in the serum that can bind to red blood cells, which can cause immune-mediated hemolysis
 

Q: Why should I get the Indirect Coombs Test (ICT)?
To ensure blood transfusion compatibility, monitor Rh-negative pregnancies, and diagnose autoimmune hemolytic anaemia
 

Q: How is the Indirect Coombs Test (ICT) performed?
The test is performed on a serum sample, where the serum is mixed with test RBCs and anti-human globulin reagent to detect bound antibodies
 

Q: What do positive results mean in the Indirect Coombs Test (ICT)?
A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies that can bind to RBCs, suggesting a potential risk for hemolytic reactions
 

Q: Can the Indirect Coombs Test (ICT) diagnose current hemolysis?
No, it detects antibodies that may cause hemolysis but does not directly diagnose active hemolysis. Further clinical evaluation is needed
 

Q: How soon after taking the sample can I expect results from the Indirect Coombs Test (ICT)?
Results are typically available within a few hours after the sample is processed
 

Q: What should I do if my Indirect Coombs Test (ICT) result is positive?
If the result is positive, consult your healthcare provider for further testing and to discuss potential implications for blood transfusions or pregnancy management