What is the alternative name for cordocentesis?

• A. Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling
• B. Amniocentesis
• C. Chorionic villus sampling
• D. Embryoscopy

Answer: (A)

Cordocentesis involves obtaining fetal blood by puncturing the umbilical vein through the mother's abdomen, and the alternative name for this procedure is percutaneous umbilical blood sampling. This term describes the method (percutaneous, through the skin) and the sample obtained (umbilical vein blood from the fetus). PUBS is used to quickly diagnose fetal conditions or perform fetal transfusions, with tests like fetal karyotype, blood gas analyses, infection studies, and other fetal blood assessments. It’s important to distinguish this from amniocentesis (sampling amniotic fluid), chorionic villus sampling (sampling placental tissue), and embryoscopy (direct visualization of the fetus).