What does the Coombs test evaluate?

The Coombs test evaluates antibodies that act against red blood cells, making it an essential tool in diagnosing conditions such as hemolytic anemia and determining blood compatibility for transfusions. This test is specifically designed to identify the presence of antibodies that may cause the destruction of red blood cells, either through an autoimmune response or due to transfusion reactions.

In the context of transfusions, the Coombs test helps to determine whether a patient has antibodies that could react with the donor's red blood cells, which is critical for preventing hemolytic transfusion reactions. In the case of hemolytic anemia, the test can aid in identifying whether the cause is autoimmune, where the body's immune system mistakenly targets its own red blood cells, or related to another factor.

While blood typing, platelet count, and hemoglobin levels are vital components of a complete blood count and overall hematological assessment, they do not directly relate to the Coombs test's purpose of identifying red blood cell antibodies.