Prenatal screening
Prenatal Screening
Prenatal screening (pronunciation: pre-nay-tal skree-ning) is a type of medical testing performed during pregnancy to identify potential health problems or conditions in a developing fetus.
Etymology
The term "prenatal" comes from the Latin words "prae" meaning "before" and "natus" meaning "birth". "Screening" is derived from the Old English "screnian", meaning to "examine closely".
Definition
Prenatal screening refers to the use of a variety of tests during pregnancy to determine whether a fetus is at risk for certain abnormalities or conditions. These tests can include ultrasound, blood tests, and genetic testing. It's important to note that these screenings do not provide a definitive diagnosis, but rather, they indicate whether further diagnostic tests are needed.
Types of Prenatal Screening
There are several types of prenatal screening tests, including:
- First Trimester Screening: This combines a blood test and an ultrasound exam to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome and Trisomy 18.
- Second Trimester Screening: Also known as the quad screen, this blood test measures levels of four substances in a pregnant woman's blood to assess risk for certain birth defects.
- Cell-free DNA testing: This blood test examines fetal DNA in the maternal bloodstream to detect chromosomal abnormalities.
- Carrier screening: This genetic test can determine whether a parent is a carrier for certain inherited disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease.
Related Terms
- Diagnostic testing: These are tests performed after a positive screening test to confirm a diagnosis.
- Genetic counseling: This is a service that provides information and support to individuals who have, or may be at risk for, genetic disorders.
- Amniocentesis: This is a diagnostic test that can detect certain conditions in a fetus.
- Chorionic villus sampling (CVS): This is another diagnostic test that can detect certain conditions in a fetus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Prenatal screening
- Wikipedia's article - Prenatal screening
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