maternal serum screening
Blood tests performed during pregnancy to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and neural tube defects in the fetus.
Full Definition
Maternal serum screening involves the measurement of specific proteins and hormones in the pregnant woman's blood to estimate the risk of fetal genetic conditions. The tests can be performed in the first trimester (measuring PAPP-A and beta-hCG) or second trimester (measuring AFP, hCG, estriol, and inhibin A in the 'quad screen'). These screening tests provide risk assessment rather than definitive diagnosis and are often combined with ultrasound findings and maternal age to calculate overall risk scores for conditions like Down syndrome.
Usage
Usage note: Often qualified by timing (first-trimester or second-trimester screening).
In Context
- "Maternal serum screening indicated a 1 in 150 risk for Down syndrome, prompting genetic counseling." — Screening test result
- "The quad screen maternal serum screening was normal for all measured analytes." — Prenatal care record