Coombs Test

Also known as: DAT; Direct Coombs Test; Direct Anti-human Globulin Test
Formal name: Direct Antiglobulin Test
Related tests: Indirect Antiglobulin Test; Blood Typing; Red Blood Cell Antibody Identification

Why should I do it?
To help diagnose the cause of hemolytic anemia as caused by autoimmune disease or induced by drugs; to investigate a transfusion reaction; to diagnose hemolytic disease of the newborn

When should I do it?
When your doctor wants to find out the cause of your hemolytic anemia; when you have had a blood transfusion recently and are experiencing symptoms of a tranfusion reaction; or when a newborn shows signs of hemolytic disease of the newborn

What Kind of Sample is Needed?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm

Test Preparation Needed?
None