In context of Amniocentesis, which of the following statements is incorrect ?
- It can be used for detection of Down syndrome
- It is usually done when a woman is between 14-16 weeks pregnant
- It is used for prenatal sex determination
- It can be used for detection of Cleft palate
Answer
(4) It can be used for detection of Cleft palate
Solution
In amniocentesis some amniotic fluid containing foetal cells is taken out (usually at 14–16 weeks of pregnancy) and the cells are analysed.
⇒ It detects chromosomal (e.g. Down syndrome) and metabolic disorders, and can reveal the sex of the foetus (its misuse for sex determination is banned).
∵ Cleft palate is a structural (developmental) defect and is not detected by chromosome analysis.
∴ Statement (4) is incorrect.
Answer: (4)