Fetal Red Cell Detection Kit (Kleihauer Test)

For the demonstration of fetal red cells circulating in maternal blood.

For the background to Haemolytic Disease of the Newborn click here.

Summary and Principle of Procedure
Haemoglobin A is readily eluted from adult red cells at a low pH while cord red cells or red cells from the newborn, which contain haemoglobin F, are more resistant. A suitable reagent will fully elute the adult haemoglobin A from a thin blood film without eluting the red cells containing haemoglobin F. The resistant haemoglobin can then be stained red with an appropriate counter stain, which will make them stand out clearly against the ghost-like appearance of the eluted adult cells when viewed under the microscope.

Samples
Test samples for the investigation of the presence of foetal red cells in the maternal circulation should be collected into EDTA, citrated, or heparinised tubes. Clotted samples are not suitable.

Method of Use
Thin blood film are prepared from a thoroughly mixed sample and fixed in the fixative solution for 5 minutes. Fixed films can be stored and used for up to 72 hours. The slide is then flooded with the eluting fluid for 30 seconds, washed and counterstained for 2 minutes. After washing and drying the slide is examined under a X 40 dry objective. Full details of the method of use, technical details and examination technique may be found in the instructions included in the kit.

Reagents Provided
Fixative Solution 2 x 100mls
Eluting reagent 2 x 100mls
Counterstain 2 x 100mls
Reagents are provided ready for use.

Storage
Store the reagents at room temperature.

Order Codes
Product	Code
Fetal Red Cell Detection Kit	K1302

FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions on the Guest Fetal Red Cell Detection Kit