[Prenatal diagnosis: results and observations (author's transl)]

In a period of over 7 years, 57 pathological results were obtained on analysis of 1470 amniotic fluid samples. The findings are tabulated in this paper and attention is drawn to the importance of the demonstration of rapidly adherent neural cells and specific neurogenic acetyl cholinesterase in the amniotic fluid in the diagnosis of open neural defects. Experience gained in this field is the basis for suggested guide lines applicable to prenatal diagnostic centres.