Robin Coombs

Robin Coombs

Robin Coombs, British immunologist

Born	9 January 1921
Birth place	London, England
Died	25 January 2006
Place of death	Cambridge, England
Nationality	British
Known for	Coombs test

Robert Royston Amos Coombs (9 January 1921 – 25 January 2006) was a British immunologist renowned for his pioneering work in the field of immunohematology. He is best known for developing the Coombs test, a critical diagnostic tool in blood transfusion and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

Early Life and Education

Robin Coombs was born in London, England. He attended the University of Cambridge, where he studied veterinary medicine. Coombs later shifted his focus to immunology, a field in which he would make significant contributions.

Career and Research

Coombs began his career at the University of Cambridge, where he worked alongside Robert Race and Ruth Sanger. In 1945, he developed the Coombs test, also known as the antiglobulin test, which detects antibodies that are bound to the surface of red blood cells. This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as hemolytic disease of the newborn, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, and for ensuring compatibility in blood transfusions.

Coombs Test

The Coombs test is divided into two types: the direct Coombs test and the indirect Coombs test. The direct Coombs test detects antibodies that are already attached to the red blood cells, while the indirect Coombs test is used to screen for antibodies in the serum that could bind to red blood cells. This test has become a standard procedure in blood banks and hospitals worldwide.

Contributions to Immunology

Beyond the Coombs test, Robin Coombs made significant contributions to the understanding of allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases. His work laid the foundation for modern immunohematology and has had a lasting impact on the field.

Awards and Honors

Coombs received numerous awards for his contributions to science, including the Gairdner Foundation International Award and the Royal Society of Medicine's Gold Medal. He was also elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of his groundbreaking work.

Personal Life

Robin Coombs was known for his dedication to teaching and mentoring young scientists. He spent much of his career at the University of Cambridge, where he inspired many students to pursue careers in immunology.

Legacy

Robin Coombs' work continues to influence the field of immunology. The Coombs test remains a vital tool in medical diagnostics, and his contributions have saved countless lives through improved blood transfusion practices and the management of autoimmune diseases.

Also see

• Immunohematology
• Blood transfusion
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
• Hemolytic disease of the newborn
• Robert Race
• Ruth Sanger