Evaluation of the relationship between the back of the neck and the incidence of Turner syndrome in the first trimester of pregnancy

Abstract Background and Aim: Children with various anomalies are economically, emotionally charged for the family and society. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the value of Nuchal translucency (NT) in the diagnosis of Turner Syndrome in the first trimester of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was performed on 1522 pregnant women with gestational age of 11 to 13 weeks and 6 days at Narges Genetics Laboratory in Ahvaz. Radiology was performed on all fetuses by ultrasound and the back of the neck and the length of their tail series. Those whose NTs were above 95% percentile were identified and their karyotypes diagnosed for Turner Syndrome. Results: The mean NT level in the low risk group was 1.6 mm and in the high risk group (NT percentile above 95%) was 2.8 mm. After examining the results of karyotype 2, Turner syndrome was diagnosed, both of which were in high risk group. Conclusion: By measuring NT at 11 to 13 weeks of gestation and considering the underlying risk factors, it is possible to evaluate the probability of Turner syndrome and to make a necessary diagnosis for high risk cases.