Kompas.com – Scientists in Europe succeeded in diagnosing abnormalities of Down syndrome in the fetus by examining blood samples from pregnant women. This method is expected to be a choice of tests low cost compared to current detection methods used.
Research on the validity of blood tests to detect Down syndrome is actually already done several times. In this final study, the scientists said they could see the point in the DNA-specific Down syndrome fetus through the mother’s blood sample.
Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic abnormality on chromosome number 21, ie there are 23 chromosomes or called trisomy 21. In general, DS children have delays in growth and development. Detection of abnormalities of DS is currently done with an ultrasound examination and confirmed by taking a small amount of amniotic fluid in pregnant women through the abdominal wall (amniocentesis).
Examination through a blood sample is expected to give a more accurate diagnosis and faster than standard tests. Another plus is to reduce the risk of miscarriage in the fetus.
Although current methods of blood testing is not yet commercially available, a research firm in the United States stated, this test may be available to the public next year.
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