Toxoplasmosis Test for FetusCurrent as of: November 21, 2017 |
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Toxoplasmosis Test for FetusTopic OverviewWhen a pregnant woman has toxoplasmosis , a PCR test on amniotic fluid is used to learn whether her fetus is also infected. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a method of duplicating DNA strands from a tiny sample of blood, hair, or tissue. PCR is used to identify infectious diseases, genetic conditions, and genetic links between people. PCR is preferred over a fetal blood test for antibodies because: footnote 1
In rare cases, PCR produces false-positive or false-negative test results. Follow-up testing and fetal ultrasound monitoring for hydrocephalus can help confirm PCR test results. PCR is seldom used to diagnose toxoplasmosis in adults. Antibody testing of a blood sample is easier and more widely available. Related InformationReferences
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ByHealthwise Staff Current as ofNovember 21, 2017
Current as of: November 21, 2017 Nayeri U, Thung S (2013). Congenital fetal infections. In AH DeCherney et al., eds., Current Diagnosis and Treatment Obstetrics & Gynecology, 11th ed., pp. 267-289. New York: McGraw-Hill.
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