Prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis by amniocentesis before 15 weeks' gestation
Yang, C.H.; Chu Ho, E.S.; Liu, C.C.; Lo, F.J.; Hsieh, W.K.
Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi 52(2): 81-86
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0578-1337 PMID: 8402372 Document Number: 410051
Three hundred and ten early amniocenteses before 15 weeks' gestation, including one set of triplets and four twins, were performed for prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis. There was a 100% success rate in obtaining amniotic fluid and 99.4% success rate in achieving amniotic cell cultures. The mean time from amniocentesis to cell harvest by the in situ culture method was 11.3 days. A total 13 abnormal fetal karyotypes were diagnosed. The total fetal loss rate (spontaneous abortion, elective termination and late loss) was 4.5%, while miscarriage within two weeks after amniocentesis occurred in three cases (1%). Early amniocentesis combined with in situ cell culture is a safe, rapid and effective technique for early prenatal cytogenetic diagnosis.