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Fetal test takes needle blues away
March 12, 2005 SCIENTISTS have developed an alternative test to the
amniocentesis procedure which means older women will be able to avoid one of the
most invasive and stressful moments of pregnancy. Australian researchers believe the Pap smear using DNA technology can replace
the diagnostic procedure that is performed by inserting a hollow needle through
the abdominal wall into the uterus at 18 weeks.
The new test also avoids the 1 per cent risk of miscarriage the amniocentesis
procedure carries. "It's certainly less frightening for women than having a big
needle inserted into their belly," lead researcher Ian Findlay said.
"This test is really going to revolutionise pre-clinical diagnosis as we know
it," said Professor Findlay, chief scientific officer at Gribbles Molecular
Science in Brisbane.
"It has several advantages because it's done at six weeks instead of the
amniocentesis that is done at 18 weeks.
"It's been tried on several hundred women over the last year, with 100 per
cent accuracy."
Last year, about 9000 women in Australia had an amniocentesis, which is
recommended for pregnant women over the age of 35.
Professor Findlay's test, which can be performed by a GP, uses DNA
fingerprinting to screen fetal cells taken during Pap smears. "Women living in
remote and regional towns won't need to go to a major city for the test because
the GP can do the test ... and you can get the results back in 24 hours."
Professor Findlay said the DNA technology was discovered about 20 years ago
but had never been applied to fetal cells.
"We're hoping that we can launch the service by the middle of this year, but
that will depend on getting the many more samples for this clinical trial."
Melbourne IVF chairman John McBain said the procedure was a breakthrough in
clinical testing.
"This is absolutely original, groundbreaking work.
"There's no risk of fetal loss and it's done very early." |
