Risk of Down Syndrome: 1 in 158

Patient's question:

The risk rate of Down syndrome is 1:158
The risk rate of open neural tube defects is 1:3456
AFP: 12g/ml
HCG: 24800mIU/ml

Doctor's answer:

Disease Analysis: Down syndrome screening can only be performed between the 15th and 21st weeks of pregnancy. It is primarily used to detect the likelihood of the baby having Down syndrome, but the results should only be used as a reference and not as a definitive diagnosis. Additionally, whether this test is necessary depends on your specific health condition, as determined by your doctor. The test involves a blood draw, which is usually performed alongside other blood tests. The results are then combined with your recent ultrasound findings to determine the risk level for the baby.
Medical Advice: A Down syndrome risk of 1 in 158 means that out of 158 cases, only 1 is likely to be affected. A (amniocentesis) is recommended.