Nuchal translucency screening for fetal abnormalities

Nuchal translucency screening for fetal abnormalities during the first trimester of pregnancy is the standard of care in European countries, Israel, and Australia. In the United States, however, this noninvasive procedure is still considered investigational, and thus not covered by some health insurance companies. Nuchal translucency screening uses ultrasound to measure the clear (translucent) space at the back of the fetus' neck to assess the risk for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Trisomy 18, and some forms of mental retardation. The translucent area will be larger if these abnormalities are present. Combining nuchal translucency screening with specific blood tests has a detection rate for the abnormalities of 80-85%.