ICT
The Indirect Coombs Test (ICT) is a blood test used to detect antibodies present in the serum that may react against red blood cells. It is primarily performed to check for blood group incompatibility and to identify antibodies that could cause destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis).
This test is commonly recommended during pregnancy to detect Rh incompatibility between the mother and fetus, which can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn. It is also used before blood transfusions to ensure compatibility between donor and recipient, and in the evaluation of certain autoimmune or hemolytic disorders. A positive ICT indicates the presence of antibodies, while a negative result suggests no detectable antibodies.
The ICT test is simple and requires a small blood sample. Accurate results help doctors prevent transfusion reactions, manage pregnancy-related risks, and diagnose immune-related blood disorders effectively.