Cl. Emery et al., THE KLEIHAUER-BETKE TEST - CLINICAL UTILITY, INDICATION, AND CORRELATION IN PATIENTS WITH PLACENTAL ABRUPTION AND COCAINE USE, Archives of pathology and laboratory medicine, 119(11), 1995, pp. 1032-1037
Citations number
19
Categorie Soggetti
Pathology,"Medical Laboratory Technology","Medicine, Research & Experimental
This study examines the indications for performing the Kleihauer-Betke
(KB) test and makes recommendations for its use. Results of 523 KB te
sts performed during 1993 at our hospital (Cleveland, Ohio) are review
ed in conjunction with surgical pathology reports of placental finding
s, obstetric records, and toxicology results. We conclude that the KB
test should be performed following a positive screening test on all Rh
negative mothers of Rh positive infants. Additional indications inclu
de cases of maternal trauma, unexplained increased maternal alpha-feto
protein levels, fetal distress with abnormal heart tracings, intrauter
ine fetal death, and cases of unexplained neonatal anemia. We note tha
t the KB test should not be performed to detect suspected placental ab
ruption.