When do you do the Kleihauer test?
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Specimen and requisition requirementsSpecimen(s): Complete Requisition (must include):
Requisitions Perinatal Testing for Red Blood Cell Serology (PDF) Request for Serological Investigation (PDF) Pre-shipping storageRecommended Refrigeration 1-10°C Shipping instructionsSubmit samples as soon as possible after collection. Shipping Send toCanadian Blood Services A somewhat crude laboratory test used to screen maternal blood samples for the presence of fetal red blood cells. The “K-B” test, as it is known, takes advantage of the fact that baby RBCs are generally rich in hemoglobin F, and hemoglobin F is resistant to acid. A blood sample from the mother is made into a smear on a glass slide, then the slide is flooded with acid. Maternal hemoglobin (presumably hemoglobin A as in most adults) dissolves away and the fetal hemoglobin F remains intact. Then, the slide is washed, stained, and read. The fetal RBCs appear bright red, while the maternal RBCs are pale because they have lost their hemoglobin (see the image below). The technologist counts 2000 cells, and the percentage of fetal cells is used to predict the percentage of fetal red blood cells in the maternal circulation. This value is then used to calculate the total amount of fetal blood in the mother’s circulation, so that D-negative mothers may receive appropriate amounts of prophylactic Rh Immune globulin. The K-B test can be challenging to interpret, so results may vary from interpreter to interpreter, but it is inexpensive and most hospital laboratories use it. Login to North West London Pathology – consumables serviceIf you need a new account or you have a query about your order, please telephone the pathology call centre on 0203 313 5353. If you have forgotten your password you can reset this yourself. Please click here if you have forgotten your password.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Manage consent What is the principle of the Kleihauer test?The principle of this test is to differentiate fetal and maternal blood cells based on the type of hemoglobin that is present. The test utilizes a specialized solution that will stain fetal and maternal cells differently.
How is fetomaternal hemorrhage diagnosed?The diagnosis is made by performing a Kleihauer–Betke test on maternal blood, which allows quantification of fetal cells in maternal serum. In patients with spontaneous fetomaternal hemorrhage, the presenting symptom is decreased fetal movement.
Which hemoglobin is detected with the KleihauerThe Kleihauer-Betke test has been used to detect fetal to maternal hemorrhage (FMH) since Dr. Kleihauer's original publication in 1957. The classical test relies on the principle that red cells containing fetal hemoglobin (HbF) are less susceptible to acid elution than cells containing HbA.
What is fetal maternal hemorrhage test?Test description. The purpose of this test is to determine if the mother has experienced a placental bleed which would allow fetal blood cells to enter maternal circulation. This test is particularly important when an Rh negative mother has an Rh positive fetus.
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