What is nuchal translucency screening?

Down screening: Nuchal translucency is measuring the thickness of the baby's neck on an ultrasound in the first trimester. This measurement, along with some bloodwork from the Mom, is a screening test for Down syndrome in the baby. It detects pregnancies that are at increased risk. The only way to know for sure is to do genetic tests on the baby's cells. This can be done with CVS or amniocentesis.

Screening: It's something seen on prenatal ultrasound in the baby's neck that indications there may be a genetic abnormality, usually seen in cases of down syndrome.

Nuchal Translucency : Nuchal Translucency is a screening test to determine risk of chromosome abnormalities in a fetus. When the NT is greater than 3.5 mm, there is a 1 in 5 chance of a chromosome abnormality such as Turner or Down syndrome, or Trisomy 18. Additional tests should be ordered by an OB or genetic counselor for confirmation. A mother may decide to continue or end of the pregnancy based on the information.

Nuchal Translucency : Nuchal Translucency is a screening test to determine risk of chromosome abnormalities in a fetus. When the NT is greater than 3.5 mm, there is a 1 in 5 chance of a chromosome abnormality such as Turner or Down syndrome, or Trisomy 18. Additional tests should be ordered by an OB or genetic counselor for confirmation. A mother may decide to continue or end of the pregnancy based on the information.