Prenatal Genetic Testing (NIPT)
Safe, Non-Invasive Screening for Chromosomal Abnormalities
Prenatal Genetic Testing at TEKlaB Laboratory
NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a safe, accurate screening test that analyzes cell-free fetal DNA from a simple blood draw. It can detect chromosomal abnormalities as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy.
What NIPT Screens For
Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome)
Most common chromosomal condition. Detection rate: >99%. Extra chromosome 21.
Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome)
Serious condition affecting multiple organs. Detection rate: >97%.
Trisomy 13 (Patau Syndrome)
Rare but severe. Affects brain and heart. Detection rate: >91%.
Sex Chromosome Abnormalities
Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, and others (optional).
Benefits of NIPT
- Non-invasive: Simple blood draw - no risk to baby
- Early detection: Can be done from 10 weeks of pregnancy
- Highly accurate: >99% detection rate for trisomy 21
- Low false positive rate: <0.1% for major trisomies
- Gender determination: Optional fetal sex identification
- Peace of mind: Most results show low risk
Who Should Get NIPT?
- All pregnant women - Now recommended for all pregnancies (not just high-risk)
- Maternal age 35+ - Higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities
- Abnormal ultrasound - Concerning findings on first-trimester scan
- Positive screening - Abnormal first-trimester combined test
- Previous affected pregnancy - History of trisomy
- Family history - Chromosomal conditions in family
- IVF pregnancy - Especially with advanced maternal age
NIPT vs. Traditional Screening
| Test | Timing | Accuracy (T21) | False Positive |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIPT | 10+ weeks | >99% | <0.1% |
| Combined Test | 11-13 weeks | 85-90% | 5% |
| Quad Screen | 15-20 weeks | 80% | 5-7% |
| Amniocentesis | 15+ weeks | >99% | ~0% |
Important to Know
- NIPT is a screening test, not diagnostic
- Positive results require confirmation with amniocentesis or CVS
- Cannot detect all genetic conditions (only screens for specific trisomies)
- Works best with singleton pregnancies (one baby)
- May not work if maternal BMI is very high (>40)
- Rare cases require repeat testing (1-5%)
Understanding Your NIPT Results
Low Risk (Screen Negative): <1 in 10,000 chance - No further testing needed unless ultrasound shows concerns.
High Risk (Screen Positive): Increased risk detected - Diagnostic testing (amniocentesis) recommended to confirm. Remember: NIPT is highly accurate but not 100% - confirmation is essential.
No Result: Insufficient fetal DNA - Occurs in 1-5% of cases. Repeat testing or alternative screening recommended.
Test Preparation
- No fasting required - Can be done any time of day
- Minimum 10 weeks pregnant - Confirm gestational age with ultrasound
- Simple blood draw (10-20mL)
- Results typically in 7-10 business days
- Bring ultrasound report showing gestational age
What Happens After NIPT?
If results show low risk:
- Continue routine prenatal care
- Second-trimester anatomy scan at 18-22 weeks
- No additional genetic testing typically needed
If results show high risk:
- Genetic counseling to discuss results
- Diagnostic testing (amniocentesis) to confirm
- Detailed ultrasound examination
- Support and resources available regardless of decision
Safe & Accurate
NIPT carries no risk to your baby - just a simple blood draw from the mother.
Hours
- Mon-Fri07:30-19:00
- Saturday08:30-17:00
- Sunday09:00-14:00
Related Pregnancy Tests
Get Advanced Prenatal Screening Today
NIPT is now available in Morocco. Safe, accurate, and provides early peace of mind.
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