HomeAnswersObstetrics and GynecologytrisomyTrisomy 21 is positive in nuchal translucency. What does it indicate?

In NT scan,Trisomy 21 screen is positive. What does it mean?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Nadia Khan

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Nithila. A

Published At May 24, 2019
Reviewed AtDecember 21, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My wife is 36-year-old with a height of 5.6 and weight 152 lbs. She had NT or NB scan and double marker test in obstetrical ultrasound. The nuchal thickness is 1.0 mm. Presence of nasal bone. DV flow is normal, but in double marker test, free beta hCG is 46.20 and PAPP-A is 2.58. Trisomy 21 -screen positive cut off 1: 250. Mother's cut off free beta hCG is greater than or equal to 1.98 PAPP-A.

Answered by Dr. Nadia Khan

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

1 in 250 means that if we take 250 women of the same results as your wife had then only one will have a baby with Down syndrome. So this is the explanation of the calculated risk of Down syndrome. Secondly, NT (nuchal translucency) and blood tests which she underwent are screening tests. Screening tests are not diagnostic. They only detect who is at risk. If they become positive, that does not mean that particular is at risk. It just says that specific condition may or may not be there which is then confirmed by diagnostic tests. In your case, CVS (chorionic villus sampling, taking a sample from the baby) will diagnose if the Down syndrome is there or not which you will be offered at 12 to 13 weeks most probably. I hope it has helped you. If you require any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Nadia Khan
Dr. Nadia Khan

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

down syndrometrisomy

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Obstetrics and Gynecology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy