Prenatal Vocab Flashcards
MSFAP
Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein - This is a measurement of AFP (a protein made in fetal liver) crossing the placenta and circulating in mother’s blood system.
MSFAP results
Abnl High Levels - Suspicions of Open Neural defects
Abnl Low Levels - Suspicions of Down Syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities
Open Neural Defects
A generic term to describe problems with development with the brain, spinal cord or spina formation. Types of neural tube defects include spina bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele
Chronic Villi Sampling (CVS)
a prenatal test in which a sample of chorionic villi is removed from the placenta for testing. The sample can be taken through the cervix (transcervical) or the abdominal wall (transabdominal). This testing is used to determine chromosomal or genetic disorders in the fetus usually with FISH or PCR
Aminocentesis
A procedure in which amniotic fluid is removed from the uterus for testing or treatment. This is used primarily in prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities and fetal infections as well as for sex determination.
Amino Gram Staining
Procedure to determine the gram type of an infection as either gram negative or gram positive
Fetal lung maturity amniocentesis
An aminocentesis usually done in the third trimester [note: before 32 weeks, baby’s lungs are not developed yet] the results determine if baby’s lugs will be ready when baby is ready
Why might a provider not encourage an aminocentesis for a pregnant mom?
Amniocentesis isn’t appropriate for everyone, however. Your health care provider might discourage amniocentesis if you have an infection, such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B or hepatitis C. These infections can be transferred to your baby during amniocentesis.
When will a provider suggest a fetal lung maturity?
This type of amniocentesis is done only if early delivery — either through induction or C-section — is being considered to prevent pregnancy complications for the mother in a nonemergency situation.
Fetal Lung Maturity Aminocentesis results
Lecithin-to-Sphingomyelin Ratio (L/S ratio) is one of several methods for clinicians to assess fetal lung maturation. This value acts as a guide clinicians in determining the timing of delivery of neonates to minimize the risk of developing respiratory distress syndrome. NL - 2.0 to 2.5
Phosphatidylglycerol test (PG), foam stability test
Surfactant/albumin ratio
Respiratory distress syndrome
RDS predominantly occurs in preterm infants less than 39 weeks gestation with increased risk with lesser gestational age
How does diabetes of mother affect child’s lung? How is is this phenomenon assessed?
L/S ratio to be 3.0 due to elevated maternal glucose impacting the maturity of the developing fetal lungs. However, with some debate this correlation is not quite accurately determined yet
CRP
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a blood test marker for inflammation in the body. CRP is produced in the liver and its level is measured by testing the blood. CRP is classified as an acute phase reactant, which means that its levels will rise in response to inflammation
Describe the significance of CRP in pregnancy
C-reactive protein can be used as a biomarker in prediction of premature delivery when it is associated with premature uterine contractions. As well it can be used as a screening test to detect cases that are at risk of premature delivery
Urine C & S
Urine Culture and Sensitivity (C&S)
This test may be performed when there is 2 or more abnormal findings during Urinalysis (UA)
