What does "borderline risk in Down syndrome screening" mean?
Jul 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, a borderline risk in Down syndrome screening refers to a specific range of results obtained during prenatal screening for Down syndrome, where the result falls between the normal range and the high-risk range. A borderline risk indicates that the fetus has a relatively higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, but it does not confirm a diagnosis. Pregnant women should undergo further prenatal diagnostic testing to clarify the situation.
Generally, borderline risk in Down syndrome screening refers to a specific range of test results that fall between the normal and high-risk ranges when a pregnant woman undergoes screening for Down syndrome. Detailed explanation is as follows:
Borderline risk in Down syndrome screening refers to results that fall within a borderline range between high and low risk in prenatal screening for Down syndrome. Typically, Down syndrome screening calculates the fetal risk probability for Down syndrome by analyzing specific biochemical markers in the mother's blood, along with factors such as maternal age and gestational age. When this calculated risk probability does not meet the threshold for high risk but exceeds the reference value for low risk, it is categorized as a borderline risk. This indicates that the likelihood of the fetus having Down syndrome is somewhat higher than in low-risk cases, but it is not a definitive diagnosis. Further testing is necessary to clarify the fetal health status.
A borderline risk result in Down syndrome screening indicates an elevated risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, but does not confirm the condition. Pregnant women should undergo further prenatal diagnostic testing to clarify the situation and make decisions based on individual circumstances and medical advice. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and a positive mindset are also important.
