What is the Harmony test?
- Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
- Trisomy 18
- Trisomy 13
In addition, the Harmony test detects abnormalities of the normal number of sex chromosomes. Such an abnormality occurs, for example, in Turner syndrome and Klinefelter syndrome: In Turner syndrome, which affects only girls, the cells have only one (instead of two) X chromosomes. Klinefelter syndrome occurs only in boys: Affected individuals have at least one supernumerary X chromosome.
In addition to the Harmony test, there are comparable blood tests from other manufacturers. These include the Prenatalis test, Praena test and Panorama test.
How quickly do I find out the result?
The laboratory performing the test usually informs the attending physician about the result of the Harmony test within a few working days. According to the manufacturer, the analysis time from receipt of the sample is three working days. The doctor will then discuss the result with the pregnant woman.
How much does the Harmony test cost?
In individual cases, however, some insurance companies will cover the costs independently of the GBA decision. However, this requires an application for cost coverage. The letter should be issued by the attending gynecologist or human geneticist and sent to the health insurance company.
When can the Harmony test be done?
Harmony test: for whom is it useful?
Harmony test: advantages & reliability
The result of the Harmony test is considered very reliable. Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 can be detected with a high probability. Only very rarely is the test result wrong.
Harmony test: concerns
Conversely, in rare cases, the Harmony test also provides a false-negative result: For example, according to the test, there is a high probability that there is no Down syndrome, but the child is born with it anyway.
Critics of non-invasive prenatal tests such as the Harmony test fear that these simple blood tests increase the number of abortions (when the test is positive).
