Etymed
amniocentesis
Definition
surgical puncture of the amnion for diagnostic purposes
Clinical context
A 35-year-old pregnant woman with family history of cystic fibrosis presents for genetic counseling. The physician recommends amniocentesis to diagnose potential fetal genetic abnormalities by obtaining amniotic fluid for laboratory analysis. The procedure is typically performed between 16-20 weeks of gestation.
Mnemonic
Auntie's Mom Needs Amniotic Fluid for DNA Testing - Always perform amniocentesis for genetic diagnosis