What is the primary purpose of the Coombs test in blood grouping and crossmatching?

A To detect the presence of antibodies against RhD antigen
B To identify the ABO blood group of a patient
C To detect the presence of antibodies or complement on red blood cells
D To determine the plasma protein levels in a patient's blood
The Coombs test is used to detect the presence of antibodies or complement on red blood cells, which is crucial in identifying hemolytic disease of the newborn and transfusion reactions.
Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease
Hematology Hematology: Blood Grouping and Crossmatching Hematology: Blood Grouping and Crossmatching Medium MEDICAL Confidence: high