Final answer:
Coomb's check cells serve multiple purposes in AHG tests, including ensuring that tests with negative results are not false negatives, confirming proper removal of unbound antibodies during washing, and verifying the presence and functionality of the AHG reagent.
Step-by-step explanation:
Coomb's check cells are used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of AHG tests, which are used to detect antibodies attached to red blood cells. They serve multiple purposes, including:
- Ensuring that AHG tests with negative results are not false negatives: Coomb's check cells help confirm that AHG tests are working properly and are able to detect the presence of antibodies. If the check cells show agglutination (binding of red blood cells), it indicates that the AHG test is functioning correctly and there are no false negatives.
- Ensuring that washing removed all unbound antibody: Coomb's check cells help assess if all unbound antibodies have been removed during the washing step of the AHG test. If the check cells show agglutination, it suggests that some unbound antibodies may still be present, indicating insufficient washing.
- Ensuring that AHG was not omitted or inactivated: Coomb's check cells help verify if the AHG reagent was properly added and is active. If the check cells show agglutination, it confirms that the AHG reagent was added and is functioning correctly.
Therefore, the purpose of Coomb's check cells is all of the above, which includes ensuring that AHG tests with negative results are not false negatives, ensuring that washing removed all unbound antibodies, and ensuring that AHG was not omitted or inactivated.