Thick nuchal translucency (NT) on ultrasound can indicate what potential conditions?

Thick nuchal translucency (NT) on an ultrasound during the first trimester is recognized as a potential indicator of an increased risk for several conditions, particularly aneuploidy and congenital heart defects. Increased NT measurements, typically greater than 3 mm, can suggest genetic abnormalities, with the most common being aneuploidies such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, and trisomy 13.

Additionally, a thick NT has also been associated with congenital heart defects, as the developmental anomalies seen in these conditions can lead to fluid accumulation at the nuchal area. This correlation stems from the intricate relationship between chromosomal disorders and structural anomalies that may occur concurrently during early embryonic development.

The other options listed refer to conditions that, while important, do not have a direct relationship with thick NT measurements. For instance, Turner syndrome, though related to genetic disorders, does not typically show a direct correlation with increased nuchal translucency. Similarly, cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive condition not evaluated through NT. Holoprosencephaly and thanatophoric dysplasia involve different mechanisms and do not align with the implications of increased NT. Lastly, while duodenal atresia