Kleihauer Test

Diagnostic Use

This is an acid-elution cytochemical method of identifying individual cells containing fetal haemoglobin (HbF), even when present in only small quantities. It is able to provide information on the presence of fetal cells in the maternal circulation.

Department

Haematology

Delphic Registration Code

KHS

Synonyms

Fetal cell staining
Fetal-maternal bleed test
Foetal cell staining
Foetal-maternal bleed test

Turnaround Time

12 hours

Test Code

5357

Specimen Type

• Whole Blood

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• EDTA (Lavender Cap)

Pre-testing Requirements

Please do not wait for the results of this test to administer 1 vial of RhD Immunogloblin to RhD negative mothers with RhD positive babies. The 1st vial of RhD immunoglobulin is effective for 72 hours before further dosage is recommended.

Aliquot Instructions

Sample Type

• Whole Blood

Transport to Lab

Chilled (2 - 8 degrees Celsius)

Reference Intervals

No foetal cells seen, occasional foetal cell seen or estimated foetal maternal haemorrhage (FMH) volume

Test Method

Kleihauer Slide Test

Non-Funded Test Cost

$11.35 (Exclusive of GST)

Billing Code

5357

FMH volume estimated from number of foetal cells counted per 2000 adult cells.
Test Availability: Mon - Fri, 0800 - 2400.
Turn around time: 12 hours.

UPDATED CLINICAL INDICATIONS FOR TESTING FOR RhD POSITIVE WOMEN:
Please note that, from Monday 21st August 2023:
- Testing will not be performed unless clinical details and the RhD status are clearly provided on the request form.
- Samples will be held for 72 hours post collection, so testing may be added should there be a change in the clinical picture.
- Guidelines remain unchanged for RhD negative women.

Contact Information

Enquiry Form