Test ID DCTM Direct Coombs, Blood
Useful For
Demonstrating in vivo coating of RBCs with IgG or the complement component C3d in the following settings:
-Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
-Hemolytic transfusion reactions
-Drug-induced hemolytic anemia
Method Name
Direct Antiglobulin Test/Standard AABB
Reporting Name
Direct Coombs, BSpecimen Type
Whole Blood EDTASpecimen must arrive within 48 hours of draw.
Container/Tube: Pink top (EDTA)
Specimen Volume: 6 mL
Additional Information:
1. Diagnosis, medication, and recent transfusion history are required.
2. Monospecific anti-C3, and anti-IgG direct Coombs can be ordered separately using the following codes: MDCC3 / Monospecific Direct Coombs C3, Blood and MDCG / Monospecific Direct Coombs IgG, Blood.
Specimen Minimum Volume
3 mL of blood in a 6-mL pink EDTA Infants: Heelstick 2 to 3 drops of blood in 0.9% saline
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Whole Blood EDTA | Ambient (preferred) | 48 hours |
Refrigerated | 48 hours |
Clinical Information
IgG antibody or complement components secondary to the action of IgM antibody may be present on the patient's own RBCs or on transfused RBCs.
Reference Values
Negative
If positive, reaction is graded (micro positive to 4+).
Cautions
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia can occasionally occur with a negative direct Coombs test.
The direct Coombs test can be positive in some apparently healthy individuals.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday; Continuously
Report Available
Same day/1 dayPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test has been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
86880