The Kleihauer Betke test for detecting foetal erythrocytes is based on the fact that
**Question:** The Kleihauer Betke test for detecting foetal erythrocytes is based on the fact that
A. increased acidity
B. increased alkalinity
C. increased osmolarity
D. increased viscosity
**Correct Answer:** .
**Core Concept:** The Kleihauer Betke test is a laboratory procedure used to quantify the number of fetal red blood cells in maternal blood during pregnancy. It is named after its developers, Ernst Kleihauer and Karl Betke. This test is essential in cases where fetal red blood cells are suspected or required for diagnosis purposes, such as in cases of hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn, Rh incompatibility, or when determining the need for Rh immunoglobulin administration.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** The correct answer, B. increased alkalinity, refers to the chemical reaction used in the test to distinguish fetal from maternal red blood cells. The test is based on the fact that fetal red blood cells contain higher levels of potassium ions (K+) compared to maternal red blood cells. Consequently, the potassium ion selective electrode is used to measure the alkalinity of the sample, as the presence of higher potassium levels leads to increased pH.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Increased acidity (Option A) is incorrect because the pH of fetal blood is not significantly different from that of maternal blood. The difference in alkalinity is more important in distinguishing fetal from maternal red blood cells.
B. Increased alkalinity (Option B) is correct as explained earlier.
C. Increased osmolarity (Option C) is incorrect because the osmolarity difference between fetal and maternal red blood cells is not substantial enough to be used as a reliable indicator of fetal cells.
D. Increased viscosity (Option D) is incorrect as it does not directly differentiate between fetal and maternal red blood cells. The pH and potassium levels are the key factors in the Kleihauer Betke test.
**Clinical Pearl:** In cases where the Kleihauer Betke test is performed, it is essential to understand the principles behind the test to interpret the results accurately. This understanding aids in making appropriate clinical decisions based on the test outcomes, such as treating Rh incompatibility, assessing the need for Rh immunoglobulin administration, and monitoring fetal well-being during pregnancy.