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    Direct Coombs Test (DCT)104480023% off
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    What Is a Direct Coombs Test (DCT) Test?

    The Direct Coombs test, or direct antiglobulin test (DAT), is a diagnostic test used to detect antibodies that bind to red blood cells (RBCs) and lead to their destruction (haemolysis). This test is essential for diagnosing blood disorders, including autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA).

    In AIHA, the immune system erroneously targets and destroys its own RBCs, resulting in low RBC levels. Symptoms of AIHA can include fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). The Direct Coombs test (DCT) can help confirm whether the immune system is causing these symptoms.

    A blood sample is required for the test. A positive result indicates that antibodies are present on the RBCs. This can happen in cases of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, as well as due to some medications or autoimmune disorders like lupus.

    If you are based in Bangalore, you can opt for a DCT test in the city for timely diagnosis and effective management of your condition.

    Direct Coombs Test (DCT) Test Parameters

    The Direct Coombs test evaluates one key factor – the presence of antibodies attached to red blood cells (RBCs). These antibodies can lead to the premature breakdown of RBCs, resulting in conditions such as anaemia and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). The test involves processing a blood sample to remove unbound antibodies, followed by the addition of a special chemical to identify those bound to the RBCs. In cases of autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, the degree of clumping helps determine the severity of the condition. This test is vital for diagnosing and monitoring blood disorders, as it shows if the immune system is attacking the RBCs, allowing for timely and appropriate treatment.

    Direct Coombs Test (DCT) Test Preparation

    If you are scheduling a Direct Coombs test at home, here's what you should know:

    Prerequisites

    Usually, no fasting or special preparation is necessary before the Direct Coombs test.

    Best Time to Get Tested

    You can have the Direct Coombs test at any time during the day.

    Who Should Have a Direct Coombs Test?

    The test is recommended for individuals showing symptoms of anaemia or jaundice, or if there’s a suspicion of a blood transfusion reaction.

    Cautions Before the Direct Coombs Test

    No special precautions are required prior to the Direct Coombs test.

    Why Take the Direct Coombs Test (DCT) Test?

    The Direct Coombs test is required when doctors suspect a condition where the body creates antibodies that attack its own red blood cells (RBCs), leading to their destruction, known as haemolysis. This can result in anaemia, a shortage of healthy RBCs needed to carry oxygen throughout the body.

    The test is particularly valuable for diagnosing autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA), a condition in which the immune system erroneously targets RBCs. It works by detecting antibodies or other substances like complement proteins that may be attached to the RBCs. If the test result is positive, it suggests that these antibodies are causing the RBCs to break down.

    The Direct Coombs test is also essential in cases of suspected haemolytic transfusion reactions, where the body’s immune system reacts negatively to transfused blood. In these situations, the test aids doctors in detecting the immune reaction, which can be severe and necessitates urgent treatment. Additionally, the test is used to diagnose erythroblastosis fetalis (haemolytic disease of the newborn, HDN), in which a mother’s immune system produces antibodies that attack the RBCs of her baby, leading to jaundice and other complications. The test helps determine if treatment is necessary for the baby.

    The Direct Coombs test can also help identify if infections such as mononucleosis, syphilis, or mycoplasma, or certain medications, are causing the production of antibodies that damage RBCs.

    Overall, the Direct Coombs test is a crucial diagnostic tool for conditions where the immune system mistakenly destroys RBCs.

    FAQs on the Direct Coombs Test (DCT) Test in Delhi

    The Direct Coombs test in Bangalore is priced at ₹800. This fee covers hassle-free home sample collection within 60 minutes of booking confirmation, and results will be available within 6 hours of sample collection.

    Yes, home sample collection for the Direct Coombs test is available through Orange Health Labs in Bangalore. After booking confirmation, a trained eMedic will collect your sample within 60 minutes, depending on slot availability.

    The Direct Coombs test detects antibodies bound to red blood cells (RBCs), which helps in diagnosing conditions like haemolytic anaemia, transfusion reactions, and certain infections.

    Generally, fasting is not required for the Direct Coombs test at home. However, you should follow your doctor's guidance if any special preparations are needed.

    Booking a Direct Coombs test with Orange Health Labs is easy—just follow these steps:

    • Search for the Test : Visit the Orange Health website and select the Direct Coombs test available in Bangalore.

    • Confirm the Booking : Choose the test, review the guidelines, provide your location, and schedule a suitable time.

    • Sample Collection : A trained eMedic will collect the sample from your home or chosen location.

    • Laboratory Processing : The blood sample will be processed at an ICMR-approved and NABL-accredited laboratory.

    • Receive Results : You’ll receive the results via email or WhatsApp within 6 hours of sample collection, and they will also be available through the Orange Health app.

    The normal outcome for the Direct Coombs test is negative, meaning there are no antibodies attached to red blood cells (RBCs). A positive result shows that antibodies are present.

    After confirming your Direct Coombs test booking, an eMedic will collect your sample within 60 minutes. Results are generally available online within 6 hours of collection.

    How often you need the Direct Coombs test depends on your health condition and your doctor’s recommendations. Speak to your doctor to determine the appropriate testing frequency for you.

    The Direct Coombs test measures just one parameter: the presence of antibodies on red blood cells (RBCs), and the result is usually either positive or negative.

    Orange Health provides convenient home testing services for the Direct Coombs test in Bangalore, covering areas such as Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, Defence Colony, Dwarka, Greater Kailash, Green Park, Hauz Khas, Janakpuri, Rajouri Garden, Rohini, Safdarjung Enclave, Shahdara, South Extension, Kalkaji, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar, Malviya Nagar, Mayur Vihar, Nehru Place, Preet Vihar, and Vasant Kunj.

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    References

    1. Coombs test: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia.  Available from:  https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003344.htm
    2. Cleveland Clinic. Coombs Test: Purpose, Procedure & Result.  Available from:  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22978-coombs-test
    3. Theis SR, Hashmi MF. Coombs Test.  Available from:  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/books/NBK547707/
    4. Barrett-Connor E. Anemia and infection. The American Journal of Medicine.  Available from:  https://www.amjmed.com/article/0002-9343(72)90073-3/abstract