Definition

Noun: A prenatal diagnostic procedure performed early in pregnancy to detect genetic abnormalities or birth defects in the developing fetus. The test involves extracting and analyzing a small sample of tissue from the chorionic villi, which are finger-like projections on the chorion (part of the placenta) that share the fetus's genetic material.

Usage

This term is used specifically in medical and clinical contexts to refer to this diagnostic test. * The doctor recommended a chorionic villus biopsy to screen for chromosomal conditions. * Chorionic villus biopsy is typically performed between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy.

Advanced Usage

• The procedure is often abbreviated as CVB or more commonly as CVS (chorionic villus sampling). While "biopsy" emphasizes the tissue analysis, "sampling" is frequently used synonymously in medical practice to refer to the overall procedure.
• It is contrasted with amniocentesis, another prenatal test performed later in pregnancy.

Variants and Related Words

• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS): The more common term for the same procedure.
• Prenatal diagnosis: The broader category of testing that includes chorionic villus biopsy.
• Biopsy: The general medical procedure of extracting tissue samples for examination.

Synonyms

• Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
• Prenatal genetic test

Related Phrases

• To undergo a CVS: To have the procedure performed.
  • She decided to undergo a CVS due to her family medical history.

Noun

1. a prenatal test to detect birth defects at an early stage of pregnancy; tissue from the chorionic villi is assayed