Figure 1-5. The antiglobulin reaction. A rabbit lgG molecule with antihuman lgG
specificity is shown reacting with human lgG (for example, anti-RhO(D))
on human RBCs. (From Garratty, G.)
1-16. DIRECT ANTIGLOBULIN TEST
NOTE:
Below you are given the procedure for the direct antiglobulin test (testing for
"in vivo" coating of red cells). For variations of the indirect antiglobulin test
(testing for "in vitro" coating of red cells), see the test for DU in paragraph
1-17, and the two crossmatch procedures on pages found in Section 1-47.
a. The direct antiglobulin test is used for the detection of "in vivo" coating of
RBCs with globlins. Washed RBCs from the patient or donor are directly tested with the
antiglobulin reagents.
b. The direct antiglobulin test is useful for:
(1)
Diagnosis of hemolytic disease of the newborn.
(2)
Diagnosis of autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
(3)
Investigation of RBC sensitization caused by drugs.
(4)
Investigation of transfusion reactions.
MD0846
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