What is Chorionic Villi Sampling (CVS) used for?

Chorionic Villi Sampling (CVS) is a prenatal test specifically used to detect genetic defects in a developing fetus. This procedure involves taking a small sample of the chorionic villi, which are tiny, finger-like projections found in the placenta that share genetic material with the fetus. The analysis of this tissue can reveal chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, as well as other genetic disorders.

This method is particularly advantageous because it can be performed earlier in pregnancy compared to amniocentesis, allowing for earlier diagnosis and the potential for timely decisions regarding the management of the pregnancy. This specificity for genetic testing distinctly separates CVS from the other options presented, which focus on unrelated medical assessments. For instance, testing for respiratory issues, measuring blood glucose levels, and assessing immune function do not involve genetic screening and are therefore not relevant to the purpose of CVS.