Your gynecological practice for foetal DNA test in Munich
The foetal DNA test is a non-invasive diagnostic test that can reliably detect or exclude foetal trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) as well as trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) and trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) using maternal blood.
The NIPT is performed by simply drawing blood from the mother’s vein and therefore carries no risks whatsoever. Maternal blood contains fragments of the unborn child’s genetic material. Using special techniques, these fragments can be augmented and screened for trisomy 13, 18 and 21 and, if desired, the child’s sex chromosome. Through examining the sex chromosomes, additional X/Y chromosome abnormalities such as Turner syndrome (45,X0), Klinefelter syndrome (47, XXY) or Triple-X syndrome (47, XXX) can also be detected. The test cannot be performed before the 10th week of pregnancy (e.g. PraenaTest®, Harmony Test®).
However, the foetal DNA test does not replace an ultrasound scan. The ultrasound can be used to detect structural abnormalities such as heart defects.
This test should therefore always be preceded by an advanced ultrasound scan – so-called first trimester screening – as the diagnosis of a nuchal oedema or an abnormality in the infant’s organs, for example, may require other diagnostic tests.
Our surgery offers a genetic consultation in combination with an early obstetric ultrasound (also known as a prenatal ultrasound scan).