Unit 2.4 Antenatal & Postnatal Screening

Question 1

What is a diagnostic test?

Answer 1

A diagnostic test is a definitive test that will show whether the baby actually has the condition

Question 2

What are the two types of diagnostic testing?

Answer 2

• CVS

- Amniocentesis

Question 3

What conditions does amniocentesis look for?

Answer 3

Downs syndrome, sickle cell anaemia & spina bifida

Question 4

When is amniocentesis usually carried out?

Answer 4

14-16 weeks

Question 5

What does the process of amniocentesis involve?

Answer 5

The process involves the removal of amniotic fluid, the fetal cells from the fluid are collected and cultured before being examined under microscope

Question 6

Advantages of amniocentesis?

Answer 6

• prenatal diagnosis possible

- detects neural tube defects

Question 7

Disadvantages of amniocentesis?

Answer 7

• small risk of miscarraige

- gives results later in pregnancy

Question 8

What is CVS?

Answer 8

CVS is an antenatal test which is used to assess the health of a foetus using cells from the placenta

Question 9

What does CVS involve?

Answer 9

It involves removing and testing a small sample of cells from an area of the placenta called the chorionic villi

Question 10

Advantages of CVS?

Answer 10

• Prenatal diagnosis possible

- Gives results earlier in pregnancy

Question 11

Disadvantages of CVS?

Answer 11

• higher risk of miscarraige than amniocentesis

- risks defects to fingers and toes if carried out too early