Q: During a routine scan, nuchal edema was reported, following which we went in for expert opinion. They confirmed that the thickness is borderline and subsequently advised an amniocentesis. All those reports are ok. Fetal heart was also checked and found ok. Is there still a cause of worry?

A:An amniocentesis only rules out chromosomal abnormalities. Nuchal edema is a marker for chromosomal abnormalities and also for cardiac defects and other structural defects. The patient would need a detailed anomalies scan and a fetal echocardiography at 20-24 weeks of gestation to assess for these. Only then can they feel reasonably comfortable.