Question

Amniocentesis is a

• A. sex determination test of a foetus based on the pattern in chromosomes of foetal cells derived from the amniotic fluid surrounding the developing embryo.
• B. sex determination test of a foetus based on the pattern in chromosomes of maternal cells derived from the amniotic fluid present in the placenta.
• C. sex determination test of a newborn baby based on the pattern in chromosomes derived from amniotic fluid present in the placenta.
• D. sex determination test of a newborn baby based on the pattern in chromosomes derived from amniotic fluid present in the blood.

Answer 1

The correct option is A sex determination test of a foetus based on the pattern in chromosomes of foetal cells derived from the amniotic fluid surrounding the developing embryo.

Amniocentesis is a medical procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is removed from the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus for testing. The amniotic fluid contains foetal cells which are analysed.

This test is employed primarily in diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities in foetus, foetal infections as well as for sex determination.

There is statutory ban (regulated by law) on amniocentesis in India for sex determination to check increasing female foeticides (killing of female foetus).