Chronic Villus Sampling. Fetal Diagnosis of Genetic Diseases in the First Trimester

Brambati, Simoni, and Fabro have provided us with an excellent discussion of the many aspects of chorionic villus sampling in this book. In addition to a thorough review of the historical, technical, and practical elements of the procedure, attention has been directed to the social and ethical issues surrounding this valuable and new means of addressing the fetal patient. Bernadette Modell also contributes valuable comments about the influence of political and religious attitudes upon the acceptance and development of prenatal services in various societies. The chapter on the development of the concept is a well-written and useful reference because it allows a better understanding of the various methods of chorionic villus sampling, which are detailed in subsequent chapters. Large portions of this book are devoted to discussions of the means by which fetal diagnoses are made, such as karyotyping by direct and culture methods and biochemical and DNA analysis. The text and illustrations have been carefully prepared to accompany explanations of the underlying genetic principles. In summary, the book provides an integrated, comprehensive, and up-to-date reivew of first-trimester diagnosis and should prove a valuable reference for individuals involved in the care of the fetus.