(sī‵tō-jĕ-nĕt'ĭks )

The study of the structure and function of chromosomes. Clinically, the science of cytogenetics has been applied to the diagnosis and management of congenital disorders. The diagnosis of some fetal abnormalities can be made by chromosomal analysis of chorionic villus samples as early as 8 to 14 weeks' gestation.

SEE: amniocentesis; chorionic villus sampling.