What does fetal fraction mean Meaning and Definition
What does fetal fraction mean
Pronunciation
/ˈfɛtəl ˈfrækʃən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
In the context of non-invasive prenatal testing, fetal fraction refers to the proportion of fetal DNA present in a sample of maternal blood, plasma, or maternal circulating tissue, which can be used to detect and diagnose fetal genetic disorders.
Etymology
The term “fetal fraction” originated in the field of genetics and obstetrics, where it was first used to describe the proportion of fetal DNA present in maternal tissues.
Usage Notes
Fetal fraction is typically used in the context of genetic counseling and prenatal testing, where healthcare providers use the term to convey the percentage of fetal DNA present in a maternal sample.
Cultural References
Fetal fraction has been referenced in various scientific and medical articles, as well as in popular media outlets such as news websites and blogs.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
There are no common idioms or phrases that include the term “fetal fraction”.
Related Words or Phrases
- Prenatal testing
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
- Fetal DNA
- Maternal circulating tissue
Collocations
- Fetal fraction analysis
- Fetal fraction test
- Fetal fraction measurement
Frequency of Use
The term “fetal fraction” is used frequently in the medical and scientific communities, particularly in the context of prenatal testing and genetic counseling.
Common Misspellings
- Fetaltion
- Feto fraction