Ehrlich's finger test

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In vivo test for demonstrating a haemolysis caused by biphasic cold haemolysins (Donath-Landsteiner antibodies).

Description

In vivo test for demonstrating a haemolysis caused by biphasic cold haemolysins (Donath-Landsteiner antibodies). The patient's venously clogged finger is first held in ice water for 10 minutes and then in water with a temperature of 40° C. In positive cases there is a haemolysis in the serum from the capillary blood which is taken from the tip of the finger. An erythrocyt phagocytosis is often demonstrable in the blood smear.

Bibliography

  • P. Ehrlich:
    Über paroxysmale Hämoglobinurie.
    Deutsche medicinische Wochenschrift, Berlin, 1881, 7: 224-235.

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