Nuchal fold/translucency scan

A nuchal fold, or translucency, scan is a screening test to measure the probability that a baby has Down's syndrome.

The scan is carried out at about the 12th week of pregnancy and measures the amount of fluid present at the base of the unborn baby's head. This is used in conjunction with maternal age to calculate the likelihood that a baby has Down's syndrome.

A nuchal fold test should be carried out at an expert centre in fold measurement.

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