Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
There are two distinct measurements: the size of the nuchal translucency and the thickness of the nuchal fold. Nuchal translucency size is typically assessed at the end of the first trimester, between 11 weeks 3 days and 13 weeks 6 days of pregnancy. [3] Nuchal fold thickness is measured towards the end of the second trimester.
This involves the pregnant woman receiving a blood draw with a needle and a syringe and an ultrasound of the fetus. Screening tests can then include serum analyte screening or cell-free fetal DNA, and nuchal translucency ultrasound [NT], respectively. [60]
Perhaps the most common such test uses a measurement of the nuchal translucency thickness ("NT-test", or "Nuchal Scan"). Although 91% of fetuses affected by Down syndrome exhibit this defect, 5% of fetuses flagged by the test do not have Down syndrome.
Increased nuchal translucency or other abnormal ultrasound findings; Family history of a chromosomal abnormality or other genetic disorder; Parents are known carriers for a genetic disorder; Advanced maternal age (maternal age above 35). AMA is associated with increase risk of Down's syndrome and at age 35, risk is 1:400.
The pregnancy loss rate in pregnancies with confined placental mosaicism, diagnosed by chorionic villus sampling, is higher than among pregnancies without placental mosaicism. It may be that sometimes the presence of significant numbers of abnormal cells in the placenta interferes with proper placental function.
In the first trimester, cystic hygroma and thickened nuchal translucency may be observed. Macrosomia, macrocephaly, enlarged kidneys, macroglossia, cardiac abnormalities, and visceromegaly may become evident by the second and third trimesters. [1] [3] Polyhydramnios is frequently observed. [2]
Pregnant women should also monitor their blood sugars as they are able to monitor the potential development of gestational diabetes. Other prenatal screening tests include serum integrated protein tests, cell free DNA blood tests to check for chromosomal abnormalities, and nuchal translucency ultrasounds.
A nuchal cord is when the umbilical cord becomes wrapped around the fetus's neck. [1] Symptoms present in the baby shortly after birth from a prior nuchal cord may include duskiness of face, facial petechia, and bleeding in the whites of the eye. [1] Complications can include meconium, respiratory distress, anemia, and stillbirth. [1]