RESUMO
<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the feasibility of karyotype analysis using cells cultured from fetal bladder centesis samples.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Samples were derived from fetal bladder centesis for 3 fetuses featuring giant bladder and oligohydramnios. Following in vitro culture, cells were routinely processed and stained for chromosome analysis.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>For all 3 cases, cell culture has achieved success. Sufficient metaphase cells were obtained for chromosome counting and karyotype analysis. The karyotypes of the 3 fetuses were respectively 46, XY, 46, XX, t(1;5)(q22;q12)[7]/46, XX[4], and 46, XY.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Cells cultured from fetal bladder centesis may be used for karyotype analysis following in vitro culturing. This new approach can enable prenatal chromosome analysis for fetuses featuring smaller gestational weeks, giant bladder and oligohydramnios.</p>
