What Test Confirms Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome)?
Learn which diagnostic test confirms trisomy 21, including karyotype analysis, CVS, and amniocentesis.
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The test that confirms trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) is the karyotype analysis. This test examines the chromosomes in a sample of cells, usually taken from a blood sample, to determine if there is an extra 21st chromosome. Other diagnostic tests include Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis, which can be done during pregnancy to confirm the diagnosis prenatally.
FAQs & Answers
- What is the most reliable test to confirm trisomy 21? Karyotype analysis is the most reliable test to confirm trisomy 21 by detecting an extra 21st chromosome.
- Can trisomy 21 be diagnosed before birth? Yes, prenatal diagnostic tests such as Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis can confirm trisomy 21 during pregnancy.
- How does karyotype analysis detect Down syndrome? Karyotype analysis examines the chromosomes from a cell sample to identify abnormalities, such as the presence of an extra chromosome 21.
- What is the difference between CVS and amniocentesis? CVS collects placental tissue samples early in pregnancy, while amniocentesis samples amniotic fluid; both test for chromosomal abnormalities including trisomy 21.