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Test Code FMB Fetal Maternal Bleed, Flow Cytometry

Useful For

Please see the Flow Cytometry Flow Chart for ordering instructions
Determining the volume of fetal-to-maternal hemorrhage for purposes of recommending an increased dose of Rh immune globulin. May be used to detect a fetomaternal hemorrhage after the occurrence of intrauterine fetal demise.

Patient Preparation

No special patient preparation required

Collection Method

Venous draw

Minimum Volume

2 mL

Container

Purple (EDTA)

Preferred Specimen

Whole Blood

Acceptable Specimens

EDTA Whole Blood

Reference or Target Ranges

0.00 – 0.14 % Fetal Cells (≤1.5 mL of fetal RBCs in normal adults)

Reportable Units

% Fetal cells

Critical Value

Not defined for this assay

Reasons for Rejection



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Hemolysis Threshold
 N/A
Icterus Threshold
 N/A
Lipemia Threshold
 N/A
Other
 QNS, contaminated, improperly labled, improper specimen type, specimen clotted

Specimen Stability



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Ambient
 48 hours
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C)
 N/A
Frozen(-40°C to 0°C)
 N/A

Performance Information



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Days and Time Performed
 Monday – Friday 9AM – 5PM
Saturday 8AM – 12PM
Expected Turn Around Time
 24 hours
Stat Availabilty
 No
Performing Bench
 Flow Cytometry
Methodology/Method Description
 BD FACSCanto II – Flow Cytometry

Additional Information/Important Notes

Greater than 15 mL of fetal red blood cells (RBC) (30 mL of fetal whole blood) is consistent with significant fetomaternal hemorrhage (FMH).
A recommended dose of Rh immune globulin (RhIG) will be reported for all specimens. One 300 mcg dose of RhIG protects against a FMH of 30 mL of D-positive fetal whole blood or 15 mL of D-positive fetal RBCs. Recommended standard of practice is to administer RhIG within 72 hours of the fetomaternal bleed for optimal protective effects. The effectiveness of RhIG decreases beyond 72 hours post exposure but may still be clinically warranted.

CPT Codes

88184