Test Directory

Test Code
CHRAM
Test Name
Chromosome Analysis, Amniotic Fluid
CPT Codes
82106, 88235, 88267, 88280
Expected Turnaround Time
9 - 12 days
Clinical Utility
The test determines fetal karyotype. The test allows prenatal detection of chromosomal rearrangements, aneuploidy, or mosaicism. Such groups include women who: are age 35 years of age or older, have a previous child having chromosome abnormality or multiple congenital abnormalities, have had two or more previous spontaneous abortions, have a family history of a chromosome abnormality, are known carriers of an X-linked disorder, are 31 years of age or older with twin pregnancies, have abnormal fetal ultrasound findings, have a positive maternal serum marker screen, or have a positive maternal serum marker screen. Additiional biochemical or molecular tests may be performed on the cultured amniocytes.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Amniotic Fluid

Alternate Specimen Type: Fetal Urine or Cystic Hygroma Fluid

Collection Container: Sterile, Non-additive Container

Desired Specimen Volume: 15-20 mL (20-30 mL for early amniocentesis)

Collection Instructions
  1. Discard first 2 mL of fluid aspirated to avoid maternal cell contamination.
  2. Specimen is collected in a 20 mL sterile syringe and transferred aseptically to sterile tubes.
Processing and Submission Instructions

 **Requires Integrated Genetics Test Requisition**

  1. Integrated genetics form must be submitted with the specimen.
  2. If prior NIPT studies have been performed, include copy of the report.
  3. Samples from twin (multiple) pregnancies should be appropriately labeled and placed in separate transport containers with a separate request form for each twin.
Patient Preparation

The patient preferably should have had ultrasound studies (to verify fetal life, detect multiple gestation, confirm gestational age, localize fetus/placenta).

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.  

Causes for Rejection
  • Upon receipt, suitability of specimen will be determined by the Cytogenetics laboratory
  • Rubber stopper and/or frozen specimen cannot be processed
Methodology
In situ cell culturing of amniocytes to investigate numerical and/or structural chromosome abnormalities
Reference Intervals

 See patient report.

Limitations

Although the overall culture success rate is reported as >99%, culture failure can result. Reasons include (but are not limited to) lack of amniocytes in the fluid and contamination of the fluid with bacteria or yeast.

Alternate Names
  •  Karyotype, Amniotic Fluid
Reference Lab
Integrated Genetics
Testing Schedule
Varies