Nuchal Translucency (NT Scan)

Nuchal Translucency (NT) is a measurement of the thickness of the fluid-filled space at the back of the neck of a developing fetus. The NT scan is a non-invasive prenatal screening test that can help identify the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, in the first trimester of pregnancy. This test can be performed between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation and is usually combined with a blood test to calculate the risk score. There is only one type of nuchal translucency (NT) scan.

Risk Factors Associated with Nuchal Translucency

No significant risk factors are associated with undergoing a nuchal translucency (NT) test, a non-invasive prenatal screening test.

However, certain risk factors are associated with the NT test results. These include:

1. Maternal age: Women who are 35 years of age or older at the time of delivery have a higher risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality.
2. Previous pregnancy: If a previous pregnancy resulted in a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, there might be an increased risk in future pregnancies.
3. Certain genetic conditions: Women with certain genetic conditions, such as Turner syndrome or Fragile X syndrome, may have an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality.

Possible Results of the Nuchal Translucency Test

The possible results of a nuchal translucency (NT) scan can be classified as normal or abnormal.

1. A normal NT measurement is generally between 1.0-2.5 millimetres (mm) in thickness, although the exact range may vary depending on the baby's gestational age. A normal result means the baby is at low risk for certain chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome.
2. An abnormal NT measurement is generally defined as a measurement greater than 2.5 mm, although the exact cutoff may vary depending on the baby's gestational age. An abnormal result does not necessarily mean that the baby has a chromosomal abnormality but indicates a higher risk.

Who needs to visit a doctor for Nuchal Translucency?

In general, the following factors may increase the likelihood that an NT scan will be recommended:

1. Maternal age: The risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, increases with maternal age. Women who will be 35 years of age or older at the time of delivery may be advised to have an NT scan.
2. Previous history of chromosomal abnormalities: Women who have previously given birth to a baby with a chromosomal abnormality are advised to have an NT scan.
3. Family history of chromosomal abnormalities: Women with a family history of certain chromosomal abnormalities may be advised to have an NT scan.
4. Other medical conditions: Women with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, may be advised to have an NT scan.

When to see a Doctor for Nuchal Translucency?

A nuchal translucency (NT) scan is a prenatal screening test typically performed between the 11th and 14th weeks of pregnancy. Suppose you are pregnant and interested in having an NT scan. You should talk to your healthcare provider to determine if the test is recommended based on your risk factors and medical history.

In conclusion, the NT scan is a valuable tool for detecting chromosomal abnormalities and other fetal anomalies early. The test is non-invasive and safe, and various professional organizations have recommended its use. Therefore, healthcare providers and expectant mothers need to understand the test's limitations and use the results in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to make informed decisions about managing the pregnancy.

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