NUCHAL TRANSLUCENCY is the sonographic appearance of a collection of fluid under the skin behind the fetal neck in the first trimester of pregnancy.
NT thickness is measured using a transabdominal ultrasound scan (the probe is placed on the abdomen) between 11 and 13 weeks + 6 days by an expert FMF certified doctor (London Fetal Medicine Foundation).
Increased thickness occurs in patients with a higher risk of having a baby affected by Trisomy 21, 13 and 18. In order to improve test sensitivity a blood test is performed (called BI-TEST) and two hormone substances produced by the placenta (ß-HCG and PAPP-A) are analysed.
Specific software will then combine maternal age, NT measurement and the two hormone values and calculate risk rate estimates for Down Syndrome. The parents, on the basis of the test result, will receive all the information on the meaning of such risk and will be advised whether further exams should be carried out.

The ultrasound scan results are immediately available and include a DVD and pictures (prints and digital images).