Blood test developed by Tel Aviv University scientist provides detailed info on fetuses without associated health risks of amniocentesis
Israeli scientists are holding trials on a new method of screening for fetuses and say it could provide all the information received from an amniocentesis without the risks.
Prof. Noam Shomron of Tel Aviv University told The Times of Israel that his method involves taking a regular blood sample rather than the amniocentesis practice of using a needle to extract amniotic fluid, which carries a risk of miscarriage.
He said the new technique can be performed four weeks earlier than amniocentesis — at 10 weeks instead of the standard 14 — and provides as much information on the risks of numerous syndromes, diseases and disorders.
Israeli scientists are holding trials on a new method of screening for fetuses and say it could provide all the information received from an amniocentesis without the risks.
Prof. Noam Shomron of Tel Aviv University told The Times of Israel that his method involves taking a regular blood sample rather than the amniocentesis practice of using a needle to extract amniotic fluid, which carries a risk of miscarriage.
He said the new technique can be performed four weeks earlier than amniocentesis — at 10 weeks instead of the standard 14 — and provides as much information on the risks of numerous syndromes, diseases and disorders.
It also works for less common mutations such as those that occur more among particular demographics, like Tay Sachs which is more prevalent among Ashkenazi Jews.
Continue Reading: www.timesofisrael.com