[DNA quantification and triploidy phenotype in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy]

Triploidy is often associated with early abortions, but may evolve during the second trimester taking a peculiar phenotype. The conditions of diagnosis or abortion do not always let the possibility of karyotyping. Thus, DNA quantification takes all its value. Twenty-three fetuses and placentas, ranging from 14 to 30 weeks of gestation with a phenotype of triploidy were analysed. Twelve cases were proved by karyotype. The DNA index studied in 6 of these was near 1.5, which confirmed the validity of the technique. Out of 11 phenotypes without karyotyping, DNA analysis identified 4 triploidies and a possible tetraploidy. So, a series of 16 cases could be collected, including 10 partial hydatidiform moles and 6 hypotrophic or normal fetuses and placentas.