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Laboratory test

DCT Test (Direct Coombs Test)

Explore the Direct Coomb'S Test (DCT) test at PingMeDoc™ for the specified laboratory investigation. Check the exact measurements, specimen type, preparation instructions, current price and report turnaround shown in the laboratory catalogue. Ask a doctor whether this test is appropriate for your symptoms or monitoring needs.

Also known as

DCT Test · Direct Coombs Test · Direct Antiglobulin Test · DAT · Direct Coomb's Test · Coombs Test · Direct Coombs test · DAT test · Direct antiglobulin test

Sample
Blood
Fasting
Not required
Expected report time
Same day / 24 hours
Parameters
1

DCT Test: quick answers

DCT Test full form
Direct Coombs Test
DCT Test price
₹689, home sample collection
Done for
Anaemia with signs of red cell breakdown, such as jaundice or a high reticulocyte count; Newborn jaundice, especially when mother and baby have different blood groups; A suspected reaction after a blood transfusion
Fasting
Not required
Report
Same day / 24 hours

What is the DCT Test?

The DCT checks whether antibodies or complement proteins are attached to the surface of your red blood cells. When they are, the immune system can destroy red cells early, a process called haemolysis. It is also called the direct antiglobulin test (DAT).

What your DCT Test result means

Negative (normal)
No antibodies or complement were detected on the red cells. This is the expected result in most people.
Positive
Antibodies or complement are attached to the red cells. This can occur in autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, haemolytic disease of the newborn, transfusion reactions and with some medicines. A small number of healthy people test positive with no haemolysis, so the doctor reads it with haemoglobin, bilirubin and other tests.

One result is not a diagnosis. A doctor reads it with your symptoms, history, medicines and other tests.

Why is the DCT Test done?

  • Anaemia with signs of red cell breakdown, such as jaundice or a high reticulocyte count
  • Newborn jaundice, especially when mother and baby have different blood groups
  • A suspected reaction after a blood transfusion
  • Suspected autoimmune haemolytic anaemia or haemolysis caused by a medicine

What does the DCT Test (Direct Coombs Test) measure?

1 parameter. Expand a group to see the measurements, units and available method details.

Other measurements1 parameter
ParameterLOINC
Direct Coombs Test (DCT)1007-4

The reference interval printed on your actual laboratory report governs interpretation. Intervals can vary by laboratory, method, age, sex and pregnancy. Methods can also vary by processing laboratory.

DCT Test: sample & preparation

Sample: Blood. Fasting: Not required.

  • No special preparation is needed; a blood sample will be drawn from your arm as usual.

Frequently asked questions

What is the full form of DCT in medical terms?
DCT stands for Direct Coombs Test, named after the scientist Robin Coombs. It is also called the direct antiglobulin test (DAT).
What is the normal result of a DCT test?
The normal result is negative. DCT is reported as negative or positive, sometimes with a strength grade such as 1+ to 4+, rather than as a number with a range.
What is the difference between direct and indirect Coombs test?
The direct test (DCT) looks for antibodies already attached to your red cells. The indirect test (ICT) looks for free antibodies in the plasma that could attack red cells, and is used in pregnancy screening and before a transfusion.
Why is the DCT done on a newborn baby?
If a mother's antibodies cross the placenta and coat the baby's red cells, the baby can develop anaemia and jaundice. A positive DCT in the baby supports this cause, commonly seen with Rh or ABO blood group differences.
Is fasting needed for a DCT test?
No fasting is needed. Tell the doctor about recent blood transfusions and medicines you take, as some medicines can cause a positive result.
How much does the Direct Coomb'S Test (DCT) cost?
The current online price is ₹689, with MRP ₹2,019. Review your booking total before payment.
Can I book this test for home collection?
Yes. Add your collection address and choose an available collection slot at checkout.
When is the report expected?
The catalogue lists Same day / 24 hours. Confirm the collection and report schedule with the booking team.
Can I book this with other tests?
You can add available tests to the same cart. Review the combined preparation instructions and collection requirements with the booking team.

Sources: British Society for Haematology: The diagnosis and management of primary autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (Hill et al., 2017); AABB Technical Manual, 20th edition. General information, not medical advice.

This page gives catalogue facts only (sample, preparation, report time) and has not been reviewed by a doctor. It is general information, not a diagnosis or advice for you: your doctor decides which tests you need and what the results mean.

Book the DCT Test (Direct Coombs Test)

1 parameter · No fasting required · Report time: Same day / 24 hours

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