Urinalysis and Body Fluids 6th Edition by Majorie DiLorenzo, Susan Strasinger

Exercise 32

Why are amniotic specimens for cytogenetic analysis incubated at 37°C prior to analysis?

A. To detect the presence of meconium

B. To differentiate amniotic fluid from urine

C. To prevent photo-oxidation of bilirubin to biliverdin

D. To prolong fetal cell viability and integrity

Step 1 of 2

Amniotic fluid:

Fetus is surrounded by a membranous sac called amnion. The existence of amniotic fluid can be seen in amnion.

Cytogenetic analysis:

• The specimen should be handled carefully and it must be delivered to the laboratory as quickly as possible

• The specimen fluid used for cytogenetic analysis must be kept in room temperature (incubated at 37ºC) before it is being tested

• It is done to extend the life of fetal cells viability and integrity needed for analysis

Therefore, the specimen for cytogenetic analysis should be incubated at 37ºC to “prolong the life of fetal cells integrity and viability”. Hence, the correct answer is option.