Fetomaternal hemorrhage in threatened abortion.

Abstract

In this study, we compared the incidence of fetomaternal hemorrhage between patients with threatened abortion and a control population of similar gestational age. The study population comprised pregnant patients at less than 20 weeks' gestation who presented to our emergency room with a history of vaginal bleeding without cervical dilatation or passage of tissue. The control population consisted of women presenting for elective pregnancy termination; they were excluded from the study if they gave a history of any antepartum bleeding. The amount of fetomaternal hemorrhage was evaluated using the Kleihauer-Betke acid elution assay. A positive result in our laboratory, as determined by a nonpregnant control group, was a value of 0.07% or more fetal cells. Using this criterion, 11% of the study population had a positive Kleihauer-Betke test, compared with 4% in the pregnant control group. Rho(D) immunoglobulin may be indicated in Rho(D)-negative patients who present with threatened abortion.

• Authors: G A Von Stein, R A Munsick, K Stiver, K Ryder
• Journal: Obstetrics and gynecology (Obstet Gynecol) Vol. 79 Issue 3 Pg. 383-6 (Mar 1992) ISSN: 0029-7844 [Print] United States
• PMID: 1738519 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Abortion, Threatened (complications)
• Female
• Fetomaternal Transfusion (complications, diagnosis)
• Humans
• Pregnancy