The non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) is a prenatal screening test based on the analysis of fetal DNA present in the mother’s blood. It allows a highly accurate estimation of the risk of aneuploidies (changes in the number of chromosomes) and, depending on the option chosen, it can also expand the analysis to deletions and duplications (CNVs) across all chromosomes.
At Clínica Magnasalud, we offer VeriRef and VeriRef Gold, a genomic NIPT based on massive parallel sequencing (MPS) of the whole genome, performed entirely in Spain by Reference Laboratory Genetics using CE-IVD equipment.
What VeriRef NIPT detects
VeriRef (standard option)
VeriRef is a high-accuracy NIPT that screens for the risk of aneuploidies on the following chromosomes:
- 21 (Down syndrome)
- 18 (Edwards syndrome)
- 13 (Patau syndrome)
- X and Y (sex chromosomes)
It also reports fetal sex.
VeriRef Gold (expanded option)
For those who want a more comprehensive assessment, VeriRef Gold expands the analysis and detects:
- Aneuploidies across all chromosomes
- CNVs (deletions and duplications) across all chromosomes
A relevant fact: 16% of chromosomal abnormalities are not found on chromosomes 21, 18, 13, X and Y. This option can provide additional information when looking to rule out less common chromosomal abnormalities. By expanding the analysis to all chromosomes, this option can be a straightforward alternative to karyotyping products of conception when investigating possible reasons for pregnancy loss.
Why choose VeriRef and VeriRef Gold
- From week 10 of pregnancy.
- Suitable for any BMI, ethnic background, IVF and egg donation.
- Provides a detailed and highly sensitive fetal fraction measurement (sample quality control).
- Results in 10 business days.
- Very low no-result rate (<0.1%).
- Very low false-positive rate (<0.1%) (according to the test technical material).
Test accuracy and performance
VeriRef and VeriRef Gold are described as highly accurate tests, with a very low no-result rate (<0.1%) and a very low false-positive rate (<0.1%).
The following performance figures are stated in the test material (sensitivity and specificity):
| Chromosome / Condition | Sensitivity (%) | Specificity (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Down syndrome (21) | >99.9 | 99.9 |
| Edwards syndrome (18) | >99.9 | 99.9 |
| Patau syndrome (13) | >99.9 | 99.9 |
| Monosomy X | 95.0 | 99.9 |
| XX | >99.9 | 99.8 |
| XY | >99.9 | >99.9 |
| Other chromosomes | 96.4 | 99.8 |
| CNVs (deletions and duplications) | 74.1 | 99.8 |
Laboratory assurances
- VeriRef holds UNE-EN-ISO 15189 technical accreditation and includes satisfactory quality control results.
- All equipment (platform, software and consumables) is CE-IVD marked.
- Performed entirely in Spain, at the facilities of Reference Laboratory Genetics.
- The test is supported by the highest number of publications (Verifi and Illumina’s VeriSeq).
How the non-invasive prenatal test is performed
The procedure is similar to a blood test:
- You visit Clínica Magnasalud and we draw a maternal blood sample.
- Before the blood draw, we provide and manage the signing of the informed consent form (it is mandatory to send the consent with the sample).
- The sample is sent to the reference laboratory.
- You will receive the report with results in 10 business days.
Note: NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. If the result is high risk, your clinician may recommend confirmatory diagnostic testing before making clinical decisions.
When it is commonly indicated
As a general guide, the laboratory describes the following common situations:
- Advanced maternal age
- High-risk result in biochemical screening
- Ultrasound findings suggestive of chromosomal abnormalities
- History of pregnancy with a chromosomal abnormality
- Couples who want to rule out chromosomal abnormalities
- As an initial approach to evaluate early pregnancy losses (depending on clinical judgement)
Options and prices
At Clínica Magnasalud we offer the following options:
- VeriRef: screening for aneuploidies on chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y + fetal sex. Price: €450
- VeriRef Gold: all of the above plus expanded screening (aneuploidies and CNVs across all chromosomes). Price: €650
Turnaround time: 10 business days.
Frequently asked questions
From which week can I take the NIPT?
The test can be performed from week 10 of pregnancy.
Can I take the NIPT if my pregnancy is through IVF or egg donation?
Yes. The test is suitable for IVF and egg donation.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is not usually required for a blood draw. If you have specific medical instructions, please check with us before your appointment.
What do I need to bring or sign?
To perform the test, we need a maternal blood sample (typically 5–10 mL in a specific tube) and it is mandatory to send the informed consent form with the sample. At the clinic we will tell you what documentation is needed and we will handle the signing on the day of the blood draw.
Differences between NIPT and amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is an invasive, diagnostic test that collects amniotic fluid. NIPT is a non-invasive screening test based on maternal blood and is often used as a first step. If NIPT indicates high risk, your clinician may recommend confirmatory diagnostic testing before making clinical decisions.
What if I’m pregnant with twins?
Each case needs individual assessment. Let us know if this is a twin pregnancy and we will confirm the most suitable option.