Yes, they are the same screening test for abnormal babies such as
Down's syndrome.
It was first reported that the skin of Down's syndrome babies appeared to be excessive
for their bodies, especially over the back of the neck. Ultrasound scan could identify
and measure the skin fold over the back of the neck in the first trimester (at 11-14
weeks). This is known as "nuchal (neck) translucency".
Although the test does not give a definitive answer, a thick nuchal pad at the back
of the neck would suggest that the baby is at a higher risk of suffering from heart
defects, Down's syndrome or some other genetic disorders.