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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
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Human Placental and Decidual Organ Cultures to Study Infections at the Maternal-fetal Interface
Published on: July 21, 2016
Short-term chorionic villi and amniotic fluid cultures
M L Murer-Orlando1, V M McGuire
1United Medical School of Guys and St. Thomas's Hospital, London, UK.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|March 5, 2011
Summary
Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders is possible using amniotic fluid (AF) or chorionic villus (CV) sampling. These methods allow for early detection of chromosomal and molecular abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Medical Genetics
- Prenatal Diagnostics
Background:
- Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders is crucial for early intervention and management.
- Sampling of fetal material can be performed using amniotic fluid or placental tissue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the methods for obtaining amniotic fluid (AF) and chorionic villus (CV) samples for prenatal genetic diagnosis.
- To outline the timing and routes for these sampling procedures.
Main Methods:
- Chorionic villus (CV) sampling is performed in the first trimester (9-12 weeks) via transcervical or transabdominal routes.
- Amniocentesis is typically performed later in pregnancy (16-18 weeks) using the transabdominal approach.
- Ultrasound guidance is essential for accurate placement of sampling devices in both procedures.
Main Results:
- Both AF and CV sampling allow for biochemical, chromosomal, and molecular analysis.
- CV sampling offers earlier diagnostic capabilities compared to amniocentesis.
- Transabdominal amniocentesis is the standard for later pregnancy sampling.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders can be effectively achieved through AF and CV sampling.
- The choice of method and timing depends on the gestational age and clinical indication.
- These invasive procedures, when guided by ultrasound, provide valuable genetic information for pregnancy management.
