Amnio-PCR is a revolutionary, rapid prenatal diagnostic screen based on molecular DNA techniques.
Amnio-PCR has been pioneered and developed by TDL Genetics, the genetics division of the Doctors Laboratory.
Amnio-PCR is a, rapid diagnosis of the most common chromosome abnormalities using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Using a small sample of amniotic fluid, PCR amplifies and enables quantification of specific regions of the DNA molecule from uncultured amniocytes providing a definitive result within 24-48 hours.
Aims & Advantages of Amnio-PCR
Aims
- To provide a rapid (48 hours) and reliable antenatal diagnosis
of the most common chromosome abnormalities
likely to result in birth defect. - To avoid the time delay associated with tissue culture.
- To minimise maternal anxiety.
- To benefit clinical management at an earlier stage of pregnancy.
Advantages
- Low volumes of amniotic fluid required.
- Applicable to pregnancies from 12 to 34 weeks gestation.
- Definitive results of major defects within 24-48 hours.
- Rapid diagnosis of the most common chromosome abnormalities.
- Single gene defects such as the most common cystic fibrosis mutation p.F508del can be detected, if required.