Screening for chromosomal defects.

Chromosomal abnormalities are major causes of perinatal death and childhood handicap. Consequently, the detection of chromosomal disorders constitutes the most frequent indication for invasive prenatal diagnosis. However, invasive testing, by amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or cordocentesis, is associated with a risk of miscarriage of about 1% and therefore these tests are carried out only in pregnancies considered to be at high-risk for chromosomal defects. The methods of screening to identify the high-risk group are maternal age, ultrasound findings at 11–14 weeks and/or in the second trimester and maternal serum biochemical testing at 11–14 weeks and/or in the second trimester.