FETOMATERNAL BLEEDING FOLLOWING DIAGNOSTIC AMNIOCENTESIS

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  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 60  (1) , 60-64
Abstract
The frequency of diagnostic amniocentesis is increasing. Fetal bleeding and trauma have long been recognized to be complications of amniocentesis. For detection of fetomaternal bleeding, efficacy of modified Kleihauer-Betke staining and .alpha.-fetoprotein elevation in maternal blood was assessed. Preamniocentesis ultrasound scanning was found useful in reducing the incidence of fetomaternal bleeding and bloody taps. Elevation of .alpha.-fetoprotein was a more sensitive indicator of fetomaternal bleeding than was modified Kleihauer-Betke staining. The use of .alpha.-fetoprotein to detect fetomaternal bleeding associated with amniocentesis is suggested for the identification of Rh-negative patients requiring anti-D .gamma.-globulin to prevent sensitization.