Canine Coombs Reagent

The Coombs test also called direct antiglobulin test is designed to detect immune-mediated erythrocyte destruction which occurs in autoimmune hemolytic anemias and in some cases with infections neoplastic disorders canine systemic lupus erythematosis. Hemolysis in these diseases is caused by erythrocytes being coated with antibody (IgG IgM) and/or complement components (C3). Coated erythrocytes are either lysed in the bloodstream and/or removed by phagocytes. The Coombs reagent is an antiserum to IgG IgM and C3 prepared in goats. After obtaining the antiserum complement is inactivated at 56 degrees C for 30 minutes and then the antiserum is absorbed repeatedly with washed normal canine erythrocytes. These treatments ensure that the Coombs reagent will not react with normal erythrocytes. However erythrocytes that are coated with IgG IgM and/or C3 will be agglutinated by the Coombs reagent as it contains antibodies to IgG IgM and C3.