of the 21st chromosome.
Pre natal Testing.
There are two types of procedures available to pregnant women: .
screening tests and diagnostic tests. Screening tests estimate the risks that the .
fetus is at risk for certain birth defects, specifically Down Syndrome, Trisomy.
18, and Open Spina Bifida. Diagnostic tests tell whether or not the fetus .
actually has the condition.
The most commonly used screening tests are the Alpha-fetoprotien .
(AFP), also known as the Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP), and the .
Triple screen. Every pregnant woman is offered these tests but they are .
optional. Both tests involve a blood draw from the mother's arm. Various .
substances in the blood are measured for quantity. These substances are .
produced by the mother's placenta and the fetus and include Alpha-fetoprotein, .
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG), and Un conjugated Estriol. They base .
the tests on gestational age (accuracy of gestational age is essential for valid .
interpretation), maternal age at term, maternal weight, race, and whether the .
mother is diabetic. Tests are usually performed between 15-20 weeks and the .
results should be back after about a week.
These tests have high abnormal results (high or low) to prevent .
missing a fetus with a defect. So a positive result does not necessarily mean .
there is a birth defect in the fetus. The screening will detect 20-30% of affected .
fetuses. Results are measured on two levels either high or low. High levels .
signal an increased risk of neural tube defects and can include:.
1. Spinal column defects (Spina Bifida).
2. Anencephaly.
3. Cysts on the end of the spine.
4. Blockage in the Esophagus or Intestines.
5. Liver disease causing liver cells to die.
6. Defects in the abdominal wall.
7. Kidney or Urinary track defects or disease.