Fetal Nuchal Translucency Measurement: Importance and What You Need to Know

Nuchal Translucency (NT) is an important test during pregnancy, usually performed between the 11th and 14th weeks. This is an ultrasound method that measures the thickness of the fluid layer accumulated at the back of the fetus’s neck. The measurement results can provide early information about the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and Patau syndrome.

Why is it necessary to measure the nuchal translucency?

Measuring the nuchal translucency helps doctors assess the risk of genetic abnormalities or birth defects in the fetus. Fluid accumulation in the nuchal region is a normal manifestation in the early stages of pregnancy, but if the thickness exceeds the normal limit, this can be a sign of a high risk of:

– Down syndrome (trisomy 21): This is the most common chromosomal abnormality, affecting the physical and intellectual development of the child.

– Edwards and Patau syndromes (trisomy 18 and trisomy 13): Rare chromosomal abnormalities, often associated with severe birth defects and a high risk of death shortly after birth.

– Structural abnormalities: Increased nuchal translucency may be associated with certain congenital heart problems or neural tube abnormalities.

Nuchal translucency measurement procedure:

• When to perform: From the 11th to the 14th week of pregnancy, when the fetus is large enough to measure accurately.
• How to perform: Transabdominal or transvaginal ultrasound. The technician will measure the distance from the nuchal fold to the bone behind the fetus’s neck.

Nuchal translucency measurement results and their significance:

– Normal: A thickness of less than 3.5mm (at 11–14 weeks of pregnancy) is usually considered safe. However, the doctor will combine it with other screening tests to make a more accurate assessment.

– Abnormal: Thickness greater than 3.5mm can be a sign of chromosomal abnormalities or birth defects. However, not all cases are certain to have a problem, requiring further in-depth tests such as:

• Non-invasive screening test (NIPT): Analyzes fetal DNA through maternal blood to check for chromosomal abnormalities.
• Amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling: Invasive methods provide more accurate results of chromosomal abnormalities but come with some risks.

Note for pregnant mothers:

• Nuclear translucency measurement is an initial screening step, not a substitute for diagnostic tests.
• Not all fetuses with thick nuchal translucency have a disease. In some cases, the results may be normal after in-depth testing.
• Pregnant women should have the measurement performed at reputable medical facilities with a team of experienced doctors to ensure accurate results.

Conclusion: Nuchal translucency measurement is a safe and necessary test to detect early risks of chromosomal abnormalities, helping parents prepare mentally and plan appropriate pregnancy care. Regular check-ups and compliance with doctor’s instructions are important factors to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

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