Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
amniocentesis
Pronunciation: am-nee-oh-sen-TEE-sis
Prenatal diagnostic procedure involving needle aspiration of amniotic fluid for genetic testing.
Full Definition
A diagnostic procedure performed between 15-20 weeks of pregnancy where a thin needle is inserted through the abdomen into the amniotic sac to extract fluid for chromosomal and genetic analysis. The procedure carries a small risk of miscarriage and is typically offered when there is increased risk of genetic abnormalities. Results can detect conditions like Down syndrome, spina bifida, and various genetic disorders.
In Context
- "The patient was counseled about the risks and benefits of amniocentesis before scheduling the procedure." — medical report
- "Amniocentesis results showed normal chromosomal composition." — laboratory report
Also known as
amniotic fluid sampling
Don't confuse with
amniotomy
chorionic villus sampling