Question

Perform amniocentesis before 20 weeks gestation to check for

a) Fetal gender
b) Neural tube defects
c) Chromosomal abnormalities
d) Placental function

Answer 1

Amniocentesis can determine fetal gender, detect neural tube defects, and assess for chromosomal abnormalities but is not typically used to evaluate placental function.

Step-by-step explanation:

Amniocentesis performed before 20 weeks of gestation can be used to check for various fetal conditions. It is used to determine the fetal gender by analyzing chromosomes, identify neural tube defects by examining the alpha-fetoprotein levels, and assess for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, or Patau syndrome.

During amniocentesis, amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells, is extracted for analysis. Chromosomal analysis reveals not only the gender of the fetus but also gives insight into potential genetic disorders that the fetus may have inherited. Additionally, this fluid can be used to study neural tube defects by checking for abnormal levels of certain substances.

Nevertheless, amniocentesis does not typically assess placental function. For placental analysis, other methods such as Doppler ultrasound or biophysical profiles would be more relevant.