KCCT

KCCT
Specialty	Cardiology

KCCT stands for Kleihauer-Betke Cytochemical Test. It is a diagnostic test used primarily in the field of obstetrics and gynecology to detect and quantify fetal-maternal hemorrhage. This test is particularly important in cases of Rh incompatibility and other conditions where fetal red blood cells may enter the maternal circulation.

Procedure

The KCCT involves taking a sample of the mother's blood and staining it to differentiate between fetal and maternal red blood cells. The fetal cells are more resistant to acid elution and will appear bright pink, while the maternal cells will appear as ghost cells. The number of fetal cells is then counted and used to estimate the volume of fetal blood in the maternal circulation.

Clinical Significance

The KCCT is crucial for determining the need for Rh immunoglobulin administration in Rh-negative mothers. It helps in assessing the risk of hemolytic disease of the newborn and guiding appropriate treatment to prevent complications.

Related Tests

Other tests related to the detection of fetal-maternal hemorrhage include the Rosette test and flow cytometry. These tests may be used in conjunction with or as alternatives to the KCCT, depending on the clinical scenario.

History

The Kleihauer-Betke test was developed by Enno Kleihauer and Klaus Betke in the 1950s. It has since become a standard procedure in the management of pregnancies at risk for fetal-maternal hemorrhage.

See Also

• Rh incompatibility
• Hemolytic disease of the newborn
• Obstetrics
• Gynecology
• Rh immunoglobulin
• Rosette test
• Flow cytometry

References

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