The value of nuchal translucency measurement as an early predictor of congenital fetal malformation

Objective The aim of the study was to estimate the value of the nuchal translucency (NT) measurement during the period from 10th to 14th week of gestation in predicting the possibility of congenital malformation in these fetuses. Background First-trimester screening is typically conducted between the 11th and 13th weeks 6 days of gestation. At this time, NT, free b-subunits of human chorionic gonadotropin (fB-hCG), and nasal bone are powerful markers for detection of fetal conditions. Methods The present study was carried out at the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Menoufyia University Hospital during the period between 2012 and 2014. A total of 120 women were included in the study. The studied patients were divided into two groups. Thorough history taking, full examination, routine laboratory investigations, hCG, and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A were taken. Ultrasound was performed to detect NT. The collected data were organized, tabulated, and statistically analyzed using SPSS software computer package. For quantitative data, mean, minimum, maximum, and SD were calculated and comparison between two means was performed; for qualitative data, number and percent distribution were calculated and comparison between two groups was performed. A normal value of NT is usually less than 2.5-3.0 mm in thickness; assessment of the biochemical markers and their correlation with malformed fetuses number was performed, and past history was taken from mother. Results The total number of women enrolled in the study was 120; four of 11 cases with congenital fetal malformation were with positive family history. NT in the affected fetuses with a mean 2.65 mm in the first group and 3.3 mm in the second group reflects a highly significant relationship. The cutoff point of NT is 2.55 mm with a sensitivity 73.6% and specificity 80.3%, whereas combined NT, B-hCG, and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A has 100% sensitivity and 35.8% specificity. Conclusion Prenatal screening has become now an integral part of obstetric care and raises the responsibility and awareness of neonatal care. Most women prefer to undergo screening first to find out whether the fetus's risk for birth defect is high.