Cell-free fetal DNA in maternal plasma: an important advance to link fetal genetics to obstetric ultrasound.

The author reflects on the clinical significance of the circulating cell-free fetal DNA in maternal plasma in the determination of the link between fetal genetics and obstetric ultrasound. The author inferred that the goal of prenatal diagnosis has been to obtain materials for fetal molecular analysis without resorting for invasive procedures. The applications of ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology are discussed, including the screening of a single gene disease such as echogenic bowel.