Measurement of nuchal translucency

Measurement of nuchal translucency is a powerful mean to screen for aneuploidy and fetal malformations. However, it requires learning a rigorous measurement technique. To evaluate the risk for Down syndrome using nuchal translucency measurement, the risk threshold method seems to be the best adapted. Sensitivity of aneuploidy screening should improve with the combined use of serum markers during the first and second trimesters, as recommended by the French National Authority for Health since June 2007. This means that all echographers should undergo self-evaluation and have their measurement technique assessed by a certified organization.