Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disorders

Abstract

Sampling of amniotic fluid, visualization of the fetus, fetal blood sampling, and screening of maternal blood represent successive approaches to the diagnosis of specific genetic disorders in the second trimester of pregnancy. Clinical and ethical concerns about the appropriateness, safety, and efficacy of the techniques have led to multidisciplinary assessments at an early stage. A major growth in demand for medical and educational genetic services can be anticipated.