American Society Of Hematology (ASH) ITE Practice Test

What does the Direct Antiglobulin Test detect?

Detects RBC antigens Measures hemoglobin A1c Detects autoantibodies in plasma Detects IgG or C3 on surface of RBC

Correct Answer:

Detects IgG or C3 on surface of RBC

Explanation:

The Direct Antiglobulin Test looks for immune components that are already attached to a patient’s red blood cells. In this test, the red cells are washed, then an anti-human globulin reagent is added. If the cells have antibodies (usually IgG) or complement (such as C3) bound to their surface in vivo, the anti-globulin causes the cells to agglutinate. A positive result therefore indicates that the red cells are coated with immunoglobulin or complement, which supports immune-mediated hemolysis (for example, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, transfusion reactions, or hemolytic disease of the newborn). This is distinct from tests that detect red cell antigens, measure HbA1c, or detect antibodies in plasma, which are addressed by other assays.

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