[Methods for obtaining fetal blood and its characterization]

Fetal blood was collected in 83 women, 71 of these before abortions and in 12 of them with diagnostic purpose. Cardiocentesis was used in 31 cases, cordocentesis in 52. Obstetrical situation was analyzed and fetal heart beat recorded during the procedure. Blood group and rhesus appurtenance were determined in blood samples, Kleinhauer-Batke test was carried out, karyotype, HLA phenotype, and DNA analyzed. A positive result was found dependent on the adequate assessment of an obstetrical situation during fetal blood collection, as well as on equipment resolution power and physicians' experience. The possibility of practical use of cordo- and cardiocentesis is discussed with due consideration for these factors.