Coombs Test – Direct (DCT)

Description

The Direct Coombs Test (DCT), also known as the Direct Antiglobulin Test, is a blood test used to detect antibodies that are attached to the surface of red blood cells. This test is crucial in diagnosing autoimmune hemolytic anemia, a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys red blood cells. It’s also used in investigating hemolytic disease of the newborn and in evaluating certain drug-induced hemolytic reactions. The test involves adding an antiglobulin reagent to the patient’s red blood cells and observing for agglutination, which indicates the presence of attached antibodies.