OB TRIAD
Post-Conception Week 3
Another significant event is the invasion of the maternal sinusoids by the
syncytiotrophoblast. Because β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) is
produced in the syncytiotrophoblast, this now allows β-hCG to enter the
maternal bloodstream. β-hCG pregnancy test now can be positive for the first
time.
Postconception week 3: most significant event is the migration of cells through
the primitive streak between the epiblast and hypoblast to form the trilaminar
germ disk with ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm layers. These layers will
give rise to the major organs and organ systems.
Postconception weeks 4–8 (period of major teratogenic risk): during this time,
the major organs and organ systems are being formed.
Starts with 2-layer embryo
Ends with 3-layer embryo
Yields tri-laminar germ disk
Ectoderm: central and peripheral nervous systems; sensory organs of seeing
and hearing; integument layers (skin, hair, and nails)
Mesoderm: muscles, cartilage, cardiovascular system, urogenital system
Endoderm: lining of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts