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Dr. AbhistitaLast Updated on 27th January 2022

Indirect Coombs test is done to see whether there are antibodies to the Rh factor in the mother’s blood; it is also done prior to blood transfusions. Pregnant women undergo this test in their prenatal checkups. This test especially helps to identify the antibodies that are present to the Rh factor in the mother’s blood. There could be an issue for the baby if your blood cells lack the D antigen (Rh negative) present on the surface of red blood cells, but your baby has inherited the D antigen Rh positive) from the father. In such a scenario , your body will produce antibodies against the D antigen. Here, a negative result means that the mother has not developed antibodies against the fetus. This test is usually done to avoid problems related to Rh incompatibility when the test is carried out during the pregnancy. It is intricately observed that the fetus does not develop any risks due to the antibody developed in the mother. In the entire pregnancy phase, it is essential to check on every possible complication that may occur to put the mother as well as the child's life in risk and prevent all of those. Indirect Coombs test is one of the tests that is conducted to ensure that the fetus faces no problems in relation to a different Rh factor.

What is the Indirect Coombs test used for?What is included in the Indirect Coombs test?Procedure for the Indirect Coombs test How to prepare for the Indirect Coombs test?How much does the Indirect Coombs test cost?What do abnormal indirect Coombs tests indicate?Why to book an Indirect Coombs test?Indirect Coombs test at home – how does it work?Are there any risks involved in the Indirect Coombs test?Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the Indirect Coombs test used for?

The test is basically used to determine antibodies that have developed in the mother’s blood against the fetus. Since the human body is capable of producing antibodies in case of any antigens, this is a common thing that happens in the blood group as well when the RH factor of both the mother and the fetus are different. It may so happen that the mother starts to develop antibodies against the fetus leading to various problems for both of them. The doctors look into the detail that along with the prenatal screenings, the Indirect Coombs test is also performed to ensure that there is no risk that the fetus can be exposed to.

You may also need this test prior to blood transfusions. If your blood has antibodies that may harm the donor’s blood then blood transfusion may cause complications . If the test is negative you can have the blood transfusion safely .

What is included in the Indirect Coombs test?

The indirect Coombs test involves getting blood samples drawn out of the mother from the arm. The test is then conducted in the lab where the blood is checked for antibodies that may have developed in the mother against the fetus to ascertain that the fetus faces no problem. There are a couple of tests and diagnostics that are carried out throughout the pregnancy phase, one of them is the Indirect Coombs test which is a potent test the doctors will recommend if there are any chances of Rh incompatibility between the mother and the fetus. After the test results are out the doctors will look through the matter and come out with the necessary plan of action that is needed to save both the child and the mother.

Procedure for the Indirect Coombs test

The test mainly consists of drawing the blood sample from the mother via her arm. A little bit of pain and slight bleeding can be expected after the test is conducted however no major risks are yet known. Cross matching, other actions would be taken if the results are not as desired. Before undergoing the test the doctors will take all measures to understand the delicacy of the situation and come out with the most appropriate treatment plan for the safety of the mother and the baby. At this point it is required that you listen to your doctor and do as he says to avoid any complications.

How to prepare for the Indirect Coombs test?

Prior to the test you do not have to go through a lot of preparation. What is important is what happens after the completion of the test since the results of the tests may change the entire outlook of the treatment, whether you have any problems in going through the blood transfusions or not is one of the signs that gets cleared after conduction of the test. The whole process is done under expert surveillance and not much risk can be anticipated out of it. If you face any dilemma regarding the same it is necessary that you talk to your doctor and question him regarding all your problems so that you have a clear mind before going to get your tests done. This test is only an assurance that the further processes can be carried out in a systematic manner.

How much does the Indirect Coombs test cost?

The indirect Coombs test is an absolute essential if there is any risk of Rh incompatibility. In such a condition your baby may be exposed to the risks of Rh incompatibility. The doctors will also recommend for you to undergo the Indirect Coombs test to know if blood transfusion can be safely carried out and also elicit the level of antibodies that have already been produced in the mother. This test is cost effective and can be done at the rate of rupees 500 only. It is a necessity to take forward this test so that you can ensure no risks to your baby and plan a treatment that will be safe.

Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the results for an Indirect Coombs test?

You can expect to get the results for the indirect coombs test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in certain cases, depending on the location, medical advice and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.

What do abnormal indirect Coombs tests indicate?

The abnormal Coombs test indicates that the mother has already developed antibodies against the red blood cells of the fetus and is therefore sensitized. A positive coombs test interprets that the Rh positive fetus has a possibility of being harmed. However, it is to be understood that the level of harm cannot be predicted with this test. No matter what the result of the test is, the doctor will try to come up with an obvious plan of action which would be the best suited treatment for both the mother as well as the baby.

Further treatment plans will be decided by your treating doctor.The indirect Coombs test is a very potent test and it is helpful in understanding the antibodies that have been developed in the mother’s blood against the fetus. With the advent of such tests, it has now become easier for the doctor now to understand the risks that the fetus may be exposed to, and enables him to plan out the best procedures that can be carried out thereafter.

Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.

Is the Indirect Coombs test a definite test?

Indirect Coombs test is an effective test to understand the level of antibodies that has been produced in the mother’s blood. With this test now, the doctors can easily predict the risks that the fetus has been exposed to due to the formation of the antibodies. Both the positive and the negative reports are an indicator to understand the potent treatment plan that can be devised thereafter with an indirect Coombs test. It can also be stated if the blood transfusion would be easy to carry out or not. This therefore, is a definite test and can be repeated to ascertain its results.

How to read the Indirect Coombs Test report?

A negative Coombs test result comes out to be good news, because in this case, it can be interpreted that the mother has developed no antibodies against the fetus. This therefore can ensure that you can take blood from any donor and not be worried about the safety of your baby.

A positive Coombs result acts as a warning bell for the doctors where they get the indication that blood transfusions that need to be carried on thereafter have to be done with a lot of care and vigilance. Such mothers find it hard to get a suitable blood donor for themselves. The Indirect Coombs test is an effective test that helps to clear out many questions. Your doctor will recommend you to do this test if you have a different Rh factor as compared to the baby to know if there has been any Rh incompatibility. Follow the guidelines of your doctor so that no complications may occur otherwise.

Why to book an Indirect Coombs test?

This test helps to determine Rh incompatibility in a pregnant mother.After knowing the results it becomes much easier to know if the fetus is exposed to any threat or not due to Rh incompatibility. The test also indicates if there will be any problem in undergoing the blood transfusions thus giving a good idea to the doctors to plan out their next step .

It is absolutely essential that you clear your doubts with your doctor if you are pregnant. Having a child becomes even more tough when problems such as different Rh factors come into the picture. If you are at a place where you can talk about your problems to your doctor things will become easier and you will have a deeper knowledge about understanding what kind of procedures need to be followed to ensure the safety of your child.

Indirect Coombs test at home – how does it work?

The indirect Coombs test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.

Are there any risks involved in the Indirect Coombs test?

The indirect Coombs test is actually a blood test. Here the blood sample is drawn out of the mother via her arm to get the blood serum checked in the lab. The labs then work to understand if there are any antibodies that have been developed in the mother’s blood against the fetus and if so what is the level of it? The test is quite safe and carries no risk. However, slight bleeding and a prick are commonly felt while going through the test. This test is carried out in the surveillance of experts who carry out their duty with utmost care and concern so no major risks can be anticipated out of this test.

What can affect the results of the Indirect Coombs test?

The indirect Coombs test can be affected if the blood samples are not drawn properly or the test results are not accurate. In such instances, your doctor may tell you to undergo the test once again, so that precision can be maintained and the right treatment can be given to you.

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Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs

Is the lab technician coming for Indirect Coombs Test sample collection vaccinated?

Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety throughout by wearing a mask, gloves, and frequently sanitizing themselves during the sample collection.

Does MFine provide interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result along with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my Indirect Coombs Test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on Indirect Coombs Test?

Usually you can avail up to 50% discount on Indirect Coombs Test through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

When is this test done?

This test is done before any blood transfusion.
To monitor the pregnant women for prenatal screening.
Men and women of over and above the age of 5 years can get this test done.

What precautions are needed to be carried out in this test?

Inform the doctor about your medications.
There are no special precautions needed for this test.

Talk to your doctor in case of any query or trouble, as he or she will be able to guide you through the entire process. Having a child makes you go through many challenges. Along with that, if problems such as Rh incompatibility , this can only make matters more tough. It is understood that you want the safety of your child and for that, it is mandatory you take up the test. This test causes no risk but gives you an idea about the further treatment plan that can be looked out for. The minor risks are compensated when you look at the advantages of this test.

Who can undergo the Indirect Coombs test?

The test is done as a part of the prenatal test where the mother’s blood is checked for antibodies. Pregnant women undergo this test to ascertain the safety of their child. This test is also done prior to blood transfusions.

How is the test conducted at home?

What is the difference between direct and indirect Coombs test?

The direct coombs test detects antibodies that are already attached to the red blood cells while the indirect coombs test detects the antibodies in the serum (liquid part of blood) which could bind to red blood cells and cause problems.