Which prenatal test examines fetal blood for abnormalities?

• A. Amniocentesis
• B. Chorionic villus sampling
• C. PUBS
• D. Ultrasound

Answer: (C)

Direct analysis of fetal blood is the purpose here. This test, done under ultrasound guidance, accesses the fetal circulation through the umbilical cord to withdraw blood. By examining that fetal blood, clinicians can assess hematologic status, look for abnormalities such as anemia or infections, and perform rapid genetic testing when needed.

Other prenatal tests sample different compartments: amniocentesis analyzes amniotic fluid to study fetal cells and chemistry; chorionic villus sampling uses placental tissue for genetic testing; ultrasound provides imaging rather than a blood sample. The fetally obtained blood in this test makes it uniquely suited to assessing conditions that affect the fetus’s blood and rapid diagnostic needs.