Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test
This test measures the level of amino beta guanidinopropionate, a creatine-like substance, in the amniotic fluid surrounding a developing baby.
{"The test analyzes amniotic fluid to measure a specific compound called amino beta guanidinopropionate","It helps doctors evaluate fetal development and metabolic health","The test is performed during pregnancy using a sample of amniotic fluid","Results can provide information about the baby's metabolic condition"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26852-4
- Short code
- AB-Gp Amn-sCnc
- Synonyms
- AB-Gp Amn-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
A complete blood count (CBC) is a common blood test that measures the different cells in your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, to help your doctor evaluate your overall health.
The amino beta guanidinopropionate test measures the amount of a compound called amino beta guanidinopropionate (also known as beta-guanidinopropionic acid) in the amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds and protects a developing baby in the womb during pregnancy.
A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood, usually from a vein in your arm, using a thin needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where the cells are counted and analyzed.
A healthcare provider collects a sample of amniotic fluid through a procedure called amniocentesis. During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted through the abdominal wall into the uterus to withdraw a small amount of amniotic fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Your doctor may order this test as part of a routine checkup, to investigate symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, fever, or unusual bruising, or to monitor an existing condition such as anemia or infection.
This test may be ordered to help assess fetal development and metabolic health. Amino beta guanidinopropionate is a substance related to creatine metabolism, which is important for energy production in cells. Measuring its levels in amniotic fluid can provide information about how the baby's body is developing and functioning.
The procedure is quick and usually takes only a few minutes. You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the needle is inserted, and a small bruise may appear afterward, but serious side effects are rare.
During amniocentesis, you will lie on your back while your healthcare provider cleans your abdomen with an antiseptic solution. Using ultrasound guidance, a thin needle will be inserted to collect a small sample of amniotic fluid. The procedure typically takes about 5-10 minutes. You may experience some discomfort or mild cramping during or after the procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Measuring amino beta guanidinopropionate in amniotic fluid can help healthcare providers evaluate fetal metabolic status and development. This compound is a creatine analog that plays a role in energy metabolism. Abnormal levels may indicate certain developmental or metabolic conditions that may require further investigation or monitoring during pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Is the amniocentesis procedure safe?
How long does it take to get results?
What do abnormal results mean?
Does this test tell me the sex of my baby?
Sources
- 1
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy