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Why should it be done? of Chorionic Villus sampling

Chorionic villus sampling allows a very early diagnosis of serious genetic disorders. If the condition found cannot be treated, or if it causes severe disability in the child, the parents may decide to terminate the pregnancy. This test also provides early notice for parents who choose to continue with the pregnancy, enabling them to start preparing for some of the challenges ahead.

Many foetal disorders can be detected by chorionic villus sampling. These include:

  • Down's syndrome and other chromosomal conditions,
  • Cystic fibrosis, Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy and other disorders of the musculoskeletal system,
  • Thalassaemia, sickle-cell anaemia and other blood disorders,
  • Antitrypsin deficiency, phenylketonuria and other metabolic disorders, and
  • Fragile X syndrome, and other conditions causing mental health problems.

Several other less common conditions can also be diagnosed early in this way.