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Via Radiology
11011 Meridian Ave N, Suite #101
Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: 206-306-1011
Fax: 206-306-1019
News
Ultrasound Screening for Down Syndrome
Posted on Jan 24, 2007
Via Radiology is pleased to offer nuchal translucency (NT) screening exams. These exams are performed by our NT certified ultrasound sonographer. First-trimester screening combines both nuchal translucency (NT), an ultrasound exam that measures the thickness at the back of the neck of the fetus with a blood test (performed by a certified laboratory). The screening exam has been found to be an effective test in the general population when trying to determine the likelihood of a baby having Down syndrome, Trisomy 18 and other chromosomal abnormalities. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued a news release on January 2, 2007, recommending that all pregnant women, regardless of age, should be offered screening for Down syndrome.
Down syndrome is a common disorder that is caused by an extra chromosome and can result in congenital heart defects and mental retardation. The nuchal translucency exam is a non-invasive ultrasound test done before the 15th week of pregnancy. If the screening test indicates that the patient is at an increased risk for having a child with Down syndrome, their physician may recommend further testing, including an amniocentesis.
Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists News Release
