KARYOTYPING, PRODUCTS OF CONCEPTION (POCs)/ STILLBIRTH

NB: This test is very time sensitive with a high risk for failed karyotyping; preferred test is CHROMOSOMAL MICROARRAY, PRODUCTS OF CONCEPTION (POC)/ STILLBIRTH!!! Viable foetal tissue/ products of conception (POCs) in tissue culture media (or RPMI/ Hank's/ Ringer's lactate/ normal saline to which 3-4 drops of gentamicin have been added). Promptly deliver. Notify central lab in advance. First trimester loss: At least 10g chorionic villi/ POCs in culture media or normal saline with antibiotics. (3-4 drops of procaine penicillin or gentamicin). Second trimester and beyond: dual specimens preferred i.e. 1) placental biopsy from foetal side within 1 inch of the placental insertion site plus 2) foetal tissue (e.g. muscle biopsy from medial aspect of the thigh or foetal toe). Specimens to be submitted in culture media or normal saline with antibiotics. (3-4 drops of procaine penicillin or gentamicin).