POC
◆What is POC (Products of Conception) Testing?
Human cells typically contain a total of 46 chromosomes, contributed equally by the father and mother. Aneuploidy occurring before implantation can potentially lead to miscarriage or difficulty in sustaining pregnancy. POC testing examines the chromosomal makeup of fetal tissue following miscarriage, targeting individuals with a history of recurrent miscarriages or those undergoing assisted reproductive technology procedures.
It is estimated that 15-20% of pregnancies in humans end in miscarriage, with rates as high as 5-6 individuals out of 1 particularly among younger age groups. The primary cause is typically "sporadic" numerical chromosomal abnormalities, unrelated to illness or genetic conditions. However, in cases of recurrent miscarriage, there may be other underlying causes beyond sporadic errors.
POC (Products of Conception) testing is performed as a means to identify the causes of recurrent miscarriages. By surgically obtaining tissue from miscarried pregnancies and culturing it to examine the number and morphology of chromosomes, POC testing can reveal detailed insights into fetal chromosomal abnormalities and maternal factors. This information is crucial for determining future treatment strategies.
◆Advantages of POC Testing
- Identification of Aneuploidy and Understanding of Natural Conceptions
POC testing allows for the identification of chromosomal abnormalities, which account for 50% of natural conceptions. Among individuals undergoing assisted reproductive technology, the occurrence of miscarriages due to chromosomal abnormalities can rise to 60%. - Identification of Miscarriage Causes and Determination of Treatment Strategies
POC testing of fetal tissue provides a means to clearly identify the cause of miscarriage. This is particularly important for individuals who have experienced recurrent miscarriages or are undergoing assisted reproductive technology. Identifying the cause of miscarriage can be crucial for determining specific treatment strategies. - High Accuracy of Test Results and Prompt Result Acquisition
POC testing offers a high level of accuracy, exceeding 99% compared to traditional methods. Results are available approximately two weeks earlier than with conventional methods, allowing for swift diagnosis. POC testing is thus a highly beneficial approach for identifying the causes of miscarriage due to chromosomal abnormalities and guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
◆Test Results and Treatment Progression
- No Numerical Chromosomal Abnormalities in the Fetus
If there are no numerical chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, the cause of miscarriage may lie with the maternal side, prompting maternal testing. If there are other causes on the uterine side, other tests may be considered. - Numerical Chromosomal Abnormalities in the Fetus
In this case, further testing may not be necessary, and progression to the next treatment can proceed. If miscarriage is due to chromosomal abnormalities, the same treatment approach is considered. - Structural Chromosomal Abnormalities
If there are structural abnormalities, both partners undergo chromosomal testing, and if structural abnormalities are present, PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy) is indicated. Genetic counseling is considered if there are genetic factors.
