Chorionic villus sampling is a prenatal test used to determine which of the following?

• A. Fetal gender only
• B. Neural tube defects
• C. Chromosomal abnormalities and biochemical disorders
• D. Heart defects

Answer: (C)

Chorionic villus sampling analyzes fetal genetic material obtained from placental tissue to identify chromosomal abnormalities and certain biochemical or genetic disorders. Since it collects cells in the first trimester, it allows early detection through karyotyping and DNA-based tests. It is not primarily used for detecting neural tube defects or heart defects—those are usually found with ultrasound and other screening methods. Fetal gender can sometimes be determined from the same material, but the main purpose of CVS is to reveal chromosomal and metabolic/genetic issues.