NIPT
Also written as: NIPT — non-invasive prenatal testing
Non-invasive prenatal testing using maternal blood to screen for chromosomal abnormalities.
Full Definition
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a screening method that analyzes cell-free fetal DNA circulating in maternal blood to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, primarily trisomies 21, 18, and 13. The test can be performed from 10 weeks of gestation and has high detection rates with low false-positive rates. NIPT is a screening test, not diagnostic, and positive results require confirmation with invasive testing such as amniocentesis or CVS. The test may also provide information about fetal sex and sex chromosome abnormalities.
Usage
Usage note: Screening test only - positive results require diagnostic confirmation. Also called cfDNA testing.
In Context
- "NIPT results showed high risk for trisomy 21, requiring genetic counseling and diagnostic testing options." — Screening results letter
- "The patient opted for NIPT as a first-line screening approach given her intermediate risk category." — Prenatal counseling notes