neural tube defect testing

tbirt24

Does everyone get this type of testing? I've already had panorama done, so I thought I'd be finished with blood testing for a while. I was sent to the lab today and when I peeked at the paperwork it says bc I have a family history of autism. Why would that matter? I'm not seeing the connection. You can't just draw blood to diagnose someone with autism.

caden1206

I had panorama too, but still had testing for AFP. It is because the panorama doesn't pick up that risk.

tbirt24

Thanks @caden1206‌ ! That makes sense.

@PugLife5869‌ it said "Reason for testing: family history of autism" so I really couldn't have read it wrong.

desertsun

You can always refuse tests if you don't want them or want to discuss further with your care provider before continuing. 

I would guess that because there are specific genes associated with autism, and some indication that autism results from abnormal brain development, your care provider sees that as reason to be on the lookout for any possible neural defect and is not specifically looking for autism. 

Again, that's just a guess. I'd encourage you to call and ask! 

bombe4

I'm also 16w2d and had my quad screening blood draw yesterday. It tests for abnormalities that are not captured on panorama or harmony tests. It's also the last blood draw they do to look for fetal abnormalities in a normal pregnancy where risk is low on all tests. Maybe that was the test they did? I don't believe it screens for autism because as you stated, you can't really gather that info from a blood draw. 

tbirt24

Thanks ladies! This makes me feel a little better. I'm not at all concerned about the results, and like you said my A/S is in 3 weeks anyway.

orange1414

I had the AFP test done in addition to the Panorama. The Panorama does not test for neural tube defects like spina bifida, which this test does. The reason listed on your paperwork doesn't make much sense, though.

nolanova85

Could it be an insurance thing?  I had something weird on one of my early tests, and when I called about it the office said they just write it that way to ensure insurance coverage.  Not sure how often that happens, but thought I would pass along my experience.