Panorama Test: A Complete Guide To Non-invasive Prenatal Screening

By Author: Stan Jan
Total Articles: 7
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What is the Panorama Test?

The Panorama test is a type of NIPS that screens for specific chromosomal abnormalities in a fetus. By analyzing fragments of fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s blood, this test can detect conditions like Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13), among others. The Panorama test is unique in its ability to distinguish between the DNA of the mother and the fetus, which increases its accuracy compared to other NIPS options.

Who Should Consider the Panorama Test?

The Panorama test is particularly useful for expecting parents who want to gain early insights into their baby’s health without invasive testing. This test may be recommended for:

Women over 35 years of age: The risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with maternal age.
Individuals with a family history of genetic disorders: For those concerned about genetic conditions, the Panorama test offers clarity.
Parents seeking peace of mind: For expecting parents who want comprehensive information on their baby’s health, the Panorama test provides an ...
... option without invasive procedures.
It’s important to remember that the Panorama test is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. If a result shows a high risk for a particular condition, further diagnostic testing (such as amniocentesis) is recommended.

What Does the Panorama Test Screen For?

The Panorama test screens for a range of chromosomal abnormalities, including:

Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): This is the most common chromosomal condition screened by the Panorama test. It occurs when there’s an extra copy of chromosome 21, leading to intellectual and developmental delays.
Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18): A severe condition often resulting in developmental delays, physical abnormalities, and serious health issues.
Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): A rare condition marked by severe intellectual disability and physical abnormalities, including heart defects.
Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X): This condition occurs in females who have only one X chromosome, leading to unique physical characteristics and developmental delays.
Triploidy: This happens when a fetus has an extra set of chromosomes, which is generally fatal.
DiGeorge Syndrome (22q11.2 deletion): A condition caused by a missing piece of chromosome 22, affecting heart, immune system, and other developmental aspects.
The Panorama test also offers the option to determine fetal sex as early as nine weeks of pregnancy, providing additional information for expecting parents.

How Does the Panorama Test Work?

The Panorama test is a blood test conducted between 9 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s an overview of the process:

Blood Sample Collection: A simple blood sample is taken from the mother, typically from a vein in her arm.
Fetal DNA Extraction: In the lab, cell-free DNA fragments, which include both maternal and fetal DNA, are separated from the mother’s blood.
Genetic Analysis: Using advanced technology, the test identifies fetal DNA fragments and analyzes them for chromosomal abnormalities.
Results Interpretation: Within 7 to 10 days, results are delivered, indicating the risk level for various genetic conditions.
Unlike invasive procedures such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), the Panorama test poses no risk of miscarriage. This makes it an attractive choice for parents who want information on their baby’s health without risking the pregnancy.

Benefits of the Panorama Test

1. High Accuracy
The Panorama test boasts a high degree of accuracy, with an overall accuracy rate of over 99% for certain conditions. By distinguishing between maternal and fetal DNA, it reduces the risk of false positives compared to other non-invasive tests.

2. Early Detection
One of the standout benefits of the Panorama test is its ability to screen for genetic conditions as early as nine weeks into the pregnancy. Early detection allows parents more time to make informed decisions and plan for any special care that may be needed.

3. Non-Invasive and Safe
As a simple blood test, the Panorama test carries no physical risks to the mother or baby. This makes it an excellent alternative for parents who may otherwise need to rely on more invasive testing methods.

4. Comprehensive Screening Options
The Panorama test provides a broad range of screening capabilities, allowing parents to understand potential risks for numerous genetic conditions. It also offers flexibility, as parents can choose to screen for specific conditions based on their needs.

5. Determines Fetal Sex
The Panorama test allows parents to learn their baby’s gender as early as nine weeks. This option is appealing for families interested in knowing their baby’s sex before a traditional ultrasound.

Interpreting Panorama Test Results
After the Panorama test is completed, results are typically available within 7 to 10 days. Results will show one of three outcomes for each condition screened:

Low Risk: This outcome means that it is highly unlikely that the fetus has the chromosomal abnormalities screened by the test. A low-risk result provides reassurance but does not entirely rule out the presence of genetic conditions.
High Risk: This outcome suggests an increased likelihood of a particular chromosomal condition. A high-risk result does not confirm the condition but indicates that further diagnostic testing is recommended.
Inconclusive: In some cases, the Panorama test may not yield clear results, often due to insufficient fetal DNA in the sample. A repeat test may be suggested if results are inconclusive.
It’s essential to discuss the Panorama test results with a healthcare provider, as they can guide further steps, explain the meaning of the results, and provide additional support if necessary.

Panorama Test vs. Other Prenatal Tests

The Panorama test is one option among various prenatal screening tests. Here’s how it compares to other popular choices:

Standard Ultrasound: An ultrasound can detect physical markers of certain conditions, but it cannot screen for chromosomal abnormalities as precisely as the Panorama test.
Quad Screen: This blood test measures specific substances in a mother’s blood to estimate the risk of certain genetic conditions. However, it is less accurate than the Panorama test and may yield more false positives.
Amniocentesis and CVS: These diagnostic tests involve sampling amniotic fluid or placental tissue to confirm genetic abnormalities. While they provide definitive results, they are invasive and carry a small risk of miscarriage.
Other NIPS Options: Other NIPS tests offer similar screening capabilities, but the Panorama test’s unique technology distinguishes it by reducing false-positive rates and increasing result accuracy.
Cost and Insurance Coverage for the Panorama Test
The cost of the Panorama test varies depending on the specific conditions screened and the healthcare provider. Typically, the price ranges between $800 and $2,000. Some insurance plans cover the Panorama test for high-risk pregnancies or specific medical needs, but it’s essential to verify coverage with your insurance provider. Additionally, financial assistance or payment plans may be available through certain testing providers.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Panorama Test

1. How Long Does It Take to Get Results from the Panorama Test?
Results are generally available within 7 to 10 days. However, this may vary slightly based on location and specific provider.

2. Is the Panorama Test Covered by Insurance?
Insurance coverage for the Panorama test varies. Many providers cover it for pregnancies with certain risk factors, but it’s best to consult your insurance provider for details.

3. Can the Panorama Test Diagnose Genetic Disorders?
No, the Panorama test is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. It assesses the risk of certain conditions but does not confirm them. Follow-up diagnostic tests are recommended for high-risk results.

4. Is the Panorama Test Safe?
Yes, the Panorama test is a safe and non-invasive blood test that poses no risk to the mother or fetus.

5. What if the Panorama Test Results are Inconclusive?
If the Panorama test results are inconclusive, your healthcare provider may recommend repeating the test or exploring alternative screening options.

Conclusion

The Panorama test is an invaluable tool for expecting parents who want a reliable, non-invasive way to screen for genetic conditions early in pregnancy. With high accuracy, the ability to detect numerous chromosomal abnormalities, and the convenience of determining fetal sex, the Panorama test offers comprehensive insights that bring peace of mind.

For anyone interested in early and accurate prenatal screening, the Panorama test presents a safe, effective solution. Discuss this option with your healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right choice for you and your growing family.