Kleihauer-Betke test
Pronunciation: KLY-how-er BET-keh
Laboratory test measuring fetal hemoglobin distribution in red blood cells, used to diagnose hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin.
Full Definition
A specialized laboratory technique that uses acid elution to differentiate cells containing fetal hemoglobin (HbF) from those containing adult hemoglobin. In pediatric hematology, this test is primarily used to diagnose hereditary persistence of fetal hemoglobin (HPFH) and to evaluate the distribution of HbF in conditions like sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. The test can distinguish between pancellular (uniform) and heterocellular (variable) distribution of fetal hemoglobin among red blood cells.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as KB test; different from standard hemoglobin quantification methods.
In Context
- "The Kleihauer-Betke test revealed heterocellular distribution of fetal hemoglobin consistent with beta-thalassemia." — Specialized laboratory report
- "Kleihauer-Betke testing confirmed pancellular HPFH rather than beta-thalassemia trait." — Genetic evaluation