What are the Common Methods of Prenatal Diagnosis?
Several techniques are used in prenatal diagnosis, many of which involve histological examination:
1. Amniocentesis: This involves extracting a small amount of amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells, for cytogenetic analysis. 2. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): This technique involves taking a sample of the placental tissue (chorionic villi) to analyze for chromosomal abnormalities. 3. Fetal Blood Sampling (Cordocentesis): This method involves taking a blood sample from the umbilical cord to examine fetal blood cells for genetic disorders. 4. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Though primarily a molecular technique, it can be complemented by histological examination if abnormalities are detected.
