Fetomaternal bleeding following diagnostic amniocentesis
Lele, A.S.; Carmody, P.J.; Hurd, M.E.; O'Leary, J.A.
Obstetrics and Gynecology 60(1): 60-64
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-7844 PMID: 6178064 Document Number: 187974
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 found to be 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.