
Double Marker Test- First Trimester near me in Chennai










The Double Marker Test- First Trimester also known as a dual marker test, assesses specific biomarkers in a pregnant woman’s blood. It is done during the first trimester of pregnancy, usually between 11-13 weeks. This test provides information about the risk of certain birth defects such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edward syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13) in the developing fetus. It is available at an affordable price in Chennai with Tata 1mg labs.
This test measures the levels of two biomarkers in the mother’s blood: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A). The levels of these markers, along with maternal age, gestational age, and ultrasound findings help determine the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. These abnormalities can lead to various genetic conditions that can affect the baby’s growth and development. Therefore, their early detection is vital for ensuring comprehensive prenatal care and addressing potential health challenges effectively. No special preparation is required for this test.








What does Double Marker Test- First Trimester measure?
The Double Marker Test- First Trimester measures two biomarkers in maternal blood associated with chromosomal abnormalities.
a) Free beta-hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin): a hormone made by the placenta shortly after a woman becomes pregnant.
b) PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A): a protein made by the placenta during early pregnancy. It helps the placenta grow and function properly.
These, along with the USG marker and nuchal translucency (NT) measurement, are effective in Combined screening for Down syndrome and trisomy 13/18 in the fetus. This test only gives the risk for the presence of these chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. A positive screen is not diagnostic but indicates that further evaluation should be considered.
hCG is synthesized by the placenta very early in pregnancy and can be detected in the blood 8-11 days after conception. Higher levels of hCG after 11 weeks of gestation may suggest a higher chance of the baby having Down syndrome. On the other hand, low levels indicate an increased risk for trisomy 18.
PAPP-A is a protein produced by the placenta that is needed for the implantation and maintenance of a healthy placenta (afterbirth). Low levels of PAPP-A before the 14th week of pregnancy suggest an increased risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities.





FAQs related to Double Marker Test- First Trimester in Chennai
- Wald N, Densem J, Stone R, Cheng R. The use of free beta-hCG in antenatal screening for Down's syndrome. Br J Obstet Gynaecol. 1993 Jun;100(6):550-7. [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Ong CY, Liao AW, Spencer K, Munim S, Nicolaides KH. First trimester maternal serum free beta human chorionic gonadotrophin and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A as predictors of pregnancy complications. BJOG. 2000 Oct;107(10):1265-70. [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Mirsafaie M, Moghaddam-Banaem L, Kheirollahi M. The Relationship between Screening Markers in the First Trimester of Pregnancy and Chromosome Aberrations. Int J Prev Med. 2022 Apr 27;13:81. [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Shah KH, Anjum A, Nair P, Bhat P, Bhat RG, Bhat S. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A: An indicator of adverse obstetric outcomes in a South India population. Turk J Obstet Gynecol. 2020 Mar;17(1):40-45. [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Shiefa S, Amargandhi M, Bhupendra J, Moulali S, Kristine T. First Trimester Maternal Serum Screening Using Biochemical Markers PAPP-A and Free β-hCG for Down Syndrome, Patau Syndrome and Edward Syndrome. Indian J Clin Biochem. 2013 Jan;28(1):3-12. [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Commit to Healthy Choices to Help Prevent Birth Defects [Internet]. CDC; 28 June 2023 [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Infections in pregnancy that may affect your baby [Internet]. CDC; 10 March 2021 [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
- Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Improving Birth Outcomes; Bale JR, Stoll BJ, Lucas AO, editors. Reducing Birth Defects: Meeting the Challenge in the Developing World. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2003. 3, Interventions to Reduce the Impact of Birth Defects. [Accessed 22 Sept. 2023]. Available from:
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