Increased nuchal translucency thickness - second trimester

Case Discussion

Increased nuchal translucency thickness, in this case, was detected by chance as the nape of the fetus shows a bump on 3D ultrasound. It is a routine measurement at the end of the first trimester between 11 and 14 weeks. One reason for this timing is to provide women who have affected fetuses the option of an earlier and safer form of termination ¹. In second trimester, nuchal fold thickness replaces it and measured in axial plane with a thickness of >6 mm is abnormal for 16~18 weeks.  

This was the first time scan for the patient. The detection of increased nuchal translucency thickness in the second translucency, usually means that it was increased on the first trimester. A study showed that part of these cases will turn into cystic hygroma and another part showed chromosomal abnormalities and congenital anomalies ².

In this situation, chromosomal test by genetic amniocentesis and detailed anomaly scan were recommended.