what is nuchal translucency test?

[MrsBone]

I don't believe I did this with my first DS since I didn't have an ultrasound until 20 weeks. I did just have an ultrasound with current baby at 12 weeks because we couldn't find the heartbeat. Just wondering if I could have had this NT testing done without my knowledge? The sonographer had that sonogram probe up there for quite awhile taking lots of pictures. Just curious what it is.

[Astrid1024]

It examines an area at the back of the baby's neck called the nuchal translucency. If it is more than 3mm, it is a marker for Down Syndrome. Less than 3mm is considered within the range of normal. It is part of the 11 week triple screen, where they test for DS and two Trisomy genetic disorders. The triple screen is more accurate than the 15 week quad screen that tests for the same disorders. I doubt you would have had this done without your knowledge. It would be a complete violation of patient privacy. I had to have an hour long genetic consultation before they would give me the results of my triple screen. I didn't have it with my last, and didn't feel like it was absolutely necessary to have it with this one though I ended getting it so I could see the baby at 11 weeks.

[StarCat]

my understanding is that not all sonographers are qualified to do this. It is a pretty specific test and requires specific training. I could be wrong but I believe I read that somewhere. I didn't have to have any specific counseling or anything about it but I knew what they were doing and had requested it. They also have to do blood work at the same time as part of the screen.

[bleumoose]

I doubt they would have done it without your knowledge. It's a specific set of tests that you have to consent to. Sometimes insurance companies won't pay for it unless there's a "real" reason for having it (like being over 35).

[Ola_]

I know that the one we were offered was more than just the ultrasound. They would take a family history and find out your age, any relatives with those disorders in your and DH's family, etc. Based on that and the measurement of the nuchal fold from the ultrasound they would then calculate whether your risk is higher or lower than others in your age group.