Prenatal screening is a medical process that involves a series of tests and procedures performed during pregnancy to assess the health of both the mother and the developing fetus.

The primary aim of prenatal screening is to identify any potential risks or complications that may arise during pregnancy, and also to promote both physical and mental well being among pregnant mothers. take appropriate measures to manage them.

Prenatal screening typically includes the following components:

1. Pregnancy check-up: This is done by a doctor or midwife to confirm pregnancy and assess the overall health of the mother and the developing fetus.
2. Ultrasound examination
3. Laboratory examination
4. Prenatal check-up

Prenatal check-ups are an essential part of prenatal care for pregnant women. During prenatal check-ups, healthcare providers can identify and manage potential risks and complications that may arise during pregnancy

TORCH infections, rhesus incompatibility, and gestational diabetes are some of the risks that may be identified during prenatal check-ups. It is recommended to have prenatal check-ups during the first trimester of pregnancy  

1. Torch Inspection

Torch inspection is a type of screening test that is used to detect the presence of antibodies against several infectious diseases that can cause fetal abnormalities during pregnancy and diseases in adults. The test is named after the four infections it screens for, which are Toxoplasma, Rubella, CMV, and Herpes simplex viruses.

The Torch inspection test is performed by collecting a sample of venous blood from the patient, which is then analyzed for the presence of specific antibodies against the four viruses. IgM antibodies are produced in response to an ongoing infection, while IgG antibodies are produced in response to a past infection. If no IgM or IgG antibodies are detected, it is an indication that the patient does not have an active or past infection with any of the four viruses.

2. NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing)

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a type of prenatal screening that uses a sample of the mother's blood to analyze fetal DNA and assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. This type of testing is considered non-invasive because it does not involve any invasive procedures that could potentially harm the fetus or mother. NIPT is primarily used to screen for three chromosomal abnormalities: Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).

During pregnancy, some of the fetal DNA from the placenta and fetus enters the mother's bloodstream. This fetal DNA can be isolated and analyzed using specialized laboratory techniques. The amount of fetal DNA in the mother's blood is referred to as the fetal fraction, and it can vary depending on the gestational age of the fetus and other factors.

NIPT is generally recommended for :

1. NIPT is primarily used to screen the condition of the  chromosomes
2. NIPT can also provide information about the sex of the fetus
3. NIPT indicates the risk of a chromosomal abnormalities. which can cause a range of developmental abnormalities and health issues

The blood sample used for NIPT is taken from the mother's arm vein. . It is typically performed after 10 weeks of gestation in singleton pregnancies and after 12 weeks in multiple pregnancies.

NIPT is generally recommended for women who are at increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, such as women who are over 35 years old, have a family history of chromosomal disorders, or have had a previous pregnancy with a chromosomal abnormality.

While NIPT is highly accurate, it is important to note that it is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. This means that while a positive result on NIPT indicates an increased risk of a chromosomal abnormality, it does not provide a definitive diagnosis. Further diagnostic testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.

Overall, NIPT can be a valuable tool for expectant mothers and healthcare providers in assessing the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, guiding further testing and management, and providing valuable information about the pregnancy.

Author: Dr. Clarinda Hermanto (Medical Consultant of PRAMITA Clinic Lab Branch Jl. Bambang Sugeng No. The A2)