There are four types of tests: two non-invasive (involving no needle) and two invasive (involving a needle). Non-invasive testing involves an ultrasound scan and blood sample taken from the patient’s arm, and these two options are either NIPT for fetal DNA or else the combined first trimester nuchal translucency scan with another blood test.
Invasive testing can be either a CVS (needle placed into the uterus and placenta) or amniocentesis (needle placed into the uterus and amniotic fluid). These invasive tests are performed in the Rotunda Hospital Fetal Assessment Unit.
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Screening and Diagnostic Test Accuracy
Non-Invasive Screening
Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
The Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) is a new screening test that helps us to identify if your baby is likely to have a chromosomal condition, for example, Down syndrome, (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18) or Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13). The blood test can be performed from 10 weeks of pregnancy onwards.
NIPT Testing
Invasive / Diagnostic
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a test where a small sample of tissue is taken from your baby’s placenta, which is tested for chromosomal or genetic abnormalities. The test is performed between 10 weeks and 14 weeks gestation.
This test carries a small risk of less than 1/100 that you could miscarry your pregnancy.
Chorionic Villus Sampling
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis involves inserting a fine needle into the mother’s abdomen to take a sample of the amniotic fluid from around your baby, this is sent to a laboratory for testing.
This test carries a small risk of less than 1/1,000 that you could miscarry your pregnancy.
Amniocentesis
Panorama Screening
Panorama Prenatal Screening (Non-invasive prenatal testing of fetal DNA)
This test is performed from 9 weeks of pregnancy onwards and includes a blood sample and ultrasound dating scan. It gives you a personalised risk score and tells you if your baby is at high risk or low risk for certain genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau syndrome or Triploidy.
This panorama test has a 99.9% detection rate for Down Syndrome. The result is available 8 to 10 working days. One of our medical team will call you with the result and discuss any questions you may have. This test can be performed in both single or twin pregnancies. It can also be performed in spontaneous and IVF pregnancies. The blood sample is sent by courier to the United States. Panorama NIPT price is € 460.00
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