Culture for Genetic Testing, Amniotic Fluid
Use
Producing amniocyte cultures that can be used for genetic analysis. This processing test is for culturing amniocytes for prenatal genetic testing. Once confluent flasks are established, the amniocyte cultures are sent to other laboratories, either within Mayo Clinic or to external sites, based on the specific testing requested. Fetal cells obtained by amniocentesis (amniocytes) are used for a wide range of laboratory tests. Prior to testing, the cells may need to be cultured to obtain adequate numbers of amniocytes.
Special Instructions
Provide a reason for testing with each specimen. The laboratory will not reject testing if this information is not provided, but appropriate testing and interpretation may be compromised or delayed. The additional tests desired must be indicated on the request form that accompanies the specimen. Transport time should not exceed 2 days. Advise Express Mail or equivalent if not on courier service.
Limitations
Inadequate amount of specimen may not permit adequate analysis. Exposure of the specimen to temperature extremes (freezing or >30 degrees C) may destroy cells and interfere with attempts to culture cells. Improper packaging may result in broken, leaky, and contaminated specimens during transport. Contamination by maternal cells may interfere with attempts to culture cells and may cause interpretive problems. Unavoidably, about 1% to 2% of mailed-in specimens are not viable. Bloody specimens are undesirable.
New York Approved
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 103593-0
- 50397-9
- 69965-2
- 82939-0
- 42349-1
- 31208-2
- 85069-3
- 48767-8
- 18771-6
Result Turnaround Time
23-24 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Amniotic Fluid
Volume
5 to 10 mL
Minimum Volume
5 mL
Container
Amniotic fluid container
Collection Instructions
Discard the first 2 mL of amniotic fluid. If the culture will be performed in conjunction with other cytogenetic testing, a total of 25 to 30 mL will be needed.
Patient Preparation
Optimal timing for specimen collection is during 14 to 18 weeks of gestation.
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Refrigerated (preferred) |