Cell-free DNA fragments (cfDNA) are short fragments ofDNA, which can be found circulating in the blood. During pregnancy, cfDNA fragments originating from both the mother and fetus are present in the maternal blood circulation.
The NIFTY test requires taking a small maternal blood sample. cfDNA in the maternal blood is then analysed with our proprietary genetic sequencing technology and bioinformatics pipelines to screen for any chromosomal abnormality in the fetus. If any abnormality is present, small excesses or deficits in counts of the affected chromosomecan be detected.
The technology behind the NIFTY test allows for highly accurate results with detection rates for the three most common trisomy conditions present at birth (Down Syndrome, Edwards Syndrome and Patau Syndrome) of over 99%. But it’s important to understand that non-invasive prenatal tests such as NIFTY are classified as screening tests and not disgnostic test.
Note, if your current healthcare provider does not offer NIFTY, they / you could easily book it with us.