What can be used to assess whether an Rh-negative mother has developed antibodies against Rh-positive blood?

The indirect Coombs test is utilized to detect the presence of antibodies against Rh-positive blood in the serum of an Rh-negative mother. This test is crucial during pregnancy because if an Rh-negative mother has developed antibodies against Rh-positive red blood cells, it could lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn in subsequent pregnancies, particularly if the fetus is Rh-positive.

In the indirect Coombs test, the mother’s serum is mixed with Rh-positive red blood cells. If antibodies are present in the serum, they will bind to the Rh-positive cells. Then, taking this mixture, a Coombs reagent (an anti-human globulin) is added. If agglutination occurs, it signifies that the mother has developed antibodies against Rh-positive blood during either a previous pregnancy, a blood transfusion, or due to other exposures.

The other tests mentioned have different purposes. The direct Coombs test detects antibodies that are already bound to red blood cells, commonly used in cases of hemolytic anemia or transfusion reactions. The Kleihauer-Betke test is used to detect fetal blood in maternal circulation to assess for fetal-maternal hemorrhage. The Rosette test is an older method used to screen for Rh incompatibility but is generally less specific and