Fetal blood values by percutaneous umbilical blood sampling

Cordocentesis was performed, and fetal blood was sampled in 81 of 93 attempted procedures. In 45 fetuses, who proved to be normal later by normal pregnancy outcome, hematological analyses and blood chemistries were performed. The results showed an increase in total white blood cell count, red blood cell, hemoglobin, hematocrit and platelet count, while the mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin decreased during gestation. Total protein and albumin concentrations increased during pregnancy. These results provide information for the diagnosis of fetal hematological disorders, and assist in making decisions for possible fetal therapy in utero.