The Coombs test checks your blood for antibodies that attack red blood cells
There are two types of Coombs tests. The direct test looks for antibodies that are stuck to red blood cells. The indirect test looks for antibodies floating in the liquid part of your blood, called serum.
This video deals with Direct Anti Globulin Test
When is it ordered?
DAT may be ordered determine the cause of haemolytic anemia
If u get sick after a blood transfusion
symptoms of a blood transfusion reaction, are :
Fever & chills
Back pain
Bloody urine
Also ordered When you have symptoms of increased destruction of your red blood cells
Reaults
A positive DAT means that there are antibodies attached to the RBCs.
In general, the stronger the DAT reaction, the greater the amount of antibody bound to the RBCs,
A negative DAT means that antibodies are most likely not attached to your RBCs and the signs and symptoms are due to another cause that requires further investigation.
