Glossary

lumbar puncture – taking a sample of spinal fluid by inserting a needle into the body at the base of the spine. Also called a spinal tap.

pulmonary – relating to the lungs.

amniocentesis – test in which cells around a fetus are removed and examined to detect genetic abnormalities

chorionic villus sampling – test in which cells around an embryo are removed and examined to detect genetic abnormalities.

cancer – disease caused by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.