Can NT screening detect Down syndrome?

NT scan refers to nuchal translucency measurement, which generally cannot directly detect Down syndrome fetuses but can serve as a method for risk assessment.

Nuchal translucency measurement is an ultrasound examination performed during early pregnancy, primarily measuring the thickness of fluid beneath the fetal neck skin. Its main purpose is to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus by measuring the thickness of the nuchal translucency area via ultrasound. This examination cannot directly diagnose Down syndrome, but it can indirectly assess the likelihood of the fetus having Down syndrome by measuring the thickness of the nuchal translucency.

If the measurement falls outside the normal range, it may indicate an increased risk of Down syndrome in the fetus. However, this does not mean the fetus definitely has Down syndrome; further diagnostic tests are needed for confirmation. If the results are abnormal, additional tests such as non-invasive DNA testing or amniocentesis may be required to confirm the diagnosis.

Pregnant women should attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital during pregnancy. Prenatal examinations allow monitoring of fetal growth and development, enabling early detection and treatment of any abnormalities.