Amniocentesis

Approximately 3-5% of newborns will have a significant birth defect. In some instances the risks may be greater (parents at risk for certain family diseases). For this reason amniocentesis has been used for early recognition of potentially serious birth defects.

In amniocentesis a needle is inserted through the mother's abdomen into the uterus. A local anesthetic is used. The fetus normally floats in the amniotic fluid, an environment of liquid which protects the fetus and contains the chemical by-products of its development. The analysis of this fluid can give important clues to the health status and genetic makeup of the fetus.

Not all birth defects can be detected through amniocentesis. Congenital heart disease, cleft lip and palate, and some forms of mental retardation CANNOT be diagnosed. Genetic problems such as Down's syndrome, spinal bifida (incomplete closure of the spinal canal), and a large number of rare inheritable metabolic disorders can be detected. In instances of severe genetic problems, elective abortion may be considered.

Amniocentesis is used to monitor difficult pregnancies. Indications for amniocentesis are varied but are generally reserved for pregnancies occurring in which the couples are at higher risk for genetic disorders. Discuss these issues with your physician.

* POSSIBLE INDICATIONS *

1. The mother is 35 years or older.

2. There is history of a prior child with a genetic abnormality (e.g. Down's syndrome).

3. There is history of both parents being "carriers" of the same gene for an inheritable disorder.

4. The mother has a history of 3 or more spontaneous miscarriages.

5. There is a family history of a known sex-linked disorder (hemophilia etc.).

6. One parent has a history for an unusual chromosomal (genetic) abnormality (translocation).

***** REMEMBER *****

1. Risks of amniocentesis are low, however, there is a slight risk of triggering an abortion.

2. There is a small chance of introducing infection or injury to the fetus.

3. The sex of the child can be determined by this procedure.

MEDICAL TESTS

Abdominal Ultrasound
Abdominal X-Ray
Allergy Testing
Amniocentesis
Amylase Blood Test
Angiodynography
Angiogram
Arterial Blood Gases
Arthrocentesis
Arthrogram
Barium Enema
Blood Chemistry
Blood Coagulation Test
Blood Cultures
Blood Glucose Test
Blood Test Smac 25
Bone Marrow Biopsy Aspiration
Cardiac Catheterization Angioplasty
Cardiac Enzymes
Cholesterol Blood Test
Complete Blood Count
CT Scanning Back
CT Scanning Chest Abdomen
Drug Levels
Glucose Tolerance Test
Hepatitis Blood Test
HIV Blood Test
Kidney Biopsy
Kidney Blood Test
Lipoproteins
Liver Biopsy
Liver Blood Test
Lymph Node Biopsy
Mononucleosis Test
Paracentesis
Peritoneal Lavage
Pregnancy Blood Test
Prostate Specific Antigen
Skin Biopsy
Spine X-Rays
Thyroid Biopsy
Thyroid Blood Test
Toxicology