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Double Marker Test- First Trimester

Also known as Dual Marker Test, Maternal Serum Screening (MSS) - First Trimester

₹1729~~₹2400~~ 27% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Female

Test Preparation

Provide information like maternal date of birth (dd/mm/yy), last date of the menstrual cycle, ultrasound status, number of fetuses (Single/Twins), diabetic status, body weight in Kg, and previous history of IVF, smoking, and Trisomy 21 pregnancy at the time of sample collection for filling out a maternal serum screen requisition form, which is mandatory for sample collection. Also, keep the hard copy of your latest pregnancy ultrasound report (CRL, NT/NB, or Level 1) and maternal screen details (LMP, DOB, Body Weight, Diabetic status & IVF) ready at the time of the test.
The test is valid between 9 to 13 weeks of gestation (ideal for combined risk assessment between 11 to 13 weeks).

Understanding Double Marker Test- First Trimester

What is Double Marker Test- First Trimester?

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester, also known as a dual marker test, assesses specific biomarkers in a pregnant woman’s blood. It provides information about the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. This test is typically advised during the first trimester of pregnancy, usually between the ninth and thirteenth week.

Prenatal care is necessary to ensure a healthy pregnancy and successful childbirth. Early prenatal screenings are crucial in identifying potential health concerns and guiding medical interventions when necessary.

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester is an essential component of early prenatal assessment that offers invaluable insights into the developing fetus's chromosomal health. This test primarily focuses on two biomarkers, screens the fetus for chromosomal abnormalities and gives a risk assessment for the chromosomal abnormalities. These abnormalities can lead to various genetic conditions and disorders and affect the baby’s growth and development. Therefore, their early detection is vital for ensuring comprehensive prenatal care and addressing potential health challenges effectively.

The dual marker test screens the fetus for the two most common chromosomal abnormalities: Down syndrome and Edwards’ syndrome. These conditions result from the presence of extra copies of chromosomes 21 and 18, respectively, and affect the baby's physical and intellectual development. However, remember that this is just a screening test and not a diagnostic test, meaning it does not determine whether your baby has abnormalities; instead, it tells whether the unborn baby is at risk of developing certain abnormalities. This test is based entirely on a predictive and statistical approach, and further testing is required to confirm the diagnosis.

No fasting is required for a Double Marker Test- First Trimester test. However, inform your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies before taking the test. Also, tell your doctor about the medications you are taking, as certain medications can affect the results of this test and might need to be discontinued.

Test results within the expected range suggest a lower risk of chromosomal abnormalities, whereas elevated levels of biomarkers may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities and prompt further testing. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results.

Note:

The accuracy of the results is subjective to the information provided in the screening form, and this information is mandatory for combined risk assessment.
For combined risk assessment, getting tested in 11-13 weeks of pregnancy is always advisable.

What is Double Marker Test- First Trimester used for?

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester test is done:

For the early risk assessment of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, in developing fetuses.
Especially in pregnant women above 35 years of age and those with a family history of birth defects and a history of insulin-dependent type 1 diabetes.

What does Double Marker Test- First Trimester measure?

The test is named “Double Marker” or “Dual Marker” as it primarily focuses on two biomarkers associated with chromosomal abnormalities: free beta-hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A).

The placenta secretes free beta-hCG hormone during the pregnancy period. It helps provide nutrition to the developing fetus and can be detected in the blood 8-11 days after conception. Its levels continuously double every 48–72 hours, and peak levels can be seen during weeks 8–11 of gestation. Afterward, the HCG levels decrease and remain stable for the rest of the pregnancy. Higher than normal levels of this hormone after 11 weeks of gestation indicate the risk of Down syndrome.

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.

Interpreting Double Marker Test- First Trimester results

Interpretations

All women should be screened with a dual marker test during pregnancy for any pre-birth abnormalities, irrespective of age. The ideal duration of this test is between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. But it can be done between the 9th and 13th weeks of pregnancy.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Double Marker Test- First Trimester

Frequently Asked Questions about Double Marker Test- First Trimester

Q. What is a Double Marker Test- First Trimester, and why is it performed?

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester is a prenatal screening test that assesses the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. It is performed to detect potential genetic conditions such as Down syndrome and Edwards’ syndrome.

Q. How early can a dual marker test be conducted during pregnancy?

A dual marker test is typically conducted during the first trimester of pregnancy, i.e., between weeks 9 and 13.

Q. What chromosomal abnormalities are screened by a Double Marker Test- First Trimester?

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester primarily screens for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards’ syndrome (Trisomy 18).

Q. How is a Double Marker Test- First Trimester performed, and is it safe for the baby?

The test involves a simple blood draw from the pregnant woman and poses no risk to the developing fetus. Furthermore, the test is non-invasive and carries no risks to the pregnancy. It is considered a safe screening test.

Q. Can a Double Marker Test- First Trimester identify the specific chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus?

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester is a screening test and not a diagnostic test, meaning it screens for the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and doesn’t identify the specific abnormality. Confirmatory tests are required for a definitive diagnosis.

Q. What is Down syndrome?

Down syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 in a person's DNA (genetic material). It can cause various physical and intellectual challenges, such as almond-shaped eyes, a flat facial profile, a small nose, a protruding tongue, and low muscle tone. The affected individuals may take longer to achieve developmental milestones, such as walking and talking. They may also be at a higher risk for certain medical conditions, including congenital heart defects, gastrointestinal issues, hearing problems, vision issues, and respiratory infections.

Q. What is Edwards’ syndrome?

Edwards’ syndrome, also known as Trisomy 18, is a rare genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 18 in a person's DNA (genetic material). It typically results in severe intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is characterized by a range of physical abnormalities, including a small head, low-set ears, a small jaw, clenched fists with overlapping fingers, and rocker bottom feet (a rounded sole on the bottom of the feet). Most babies born with Edwards’ syndrome have congenital heart defects, often requiring surgical intervention.

Q. What if a dual marker test is missed?

Suppose you miss the recommended dual marker test time frame; in that case, your doctor may recommend alternative tests, such as a quad marker screening test (typically performed between the 15th and 21st week of pregnancy), depending on the stage of pregnancy.

Q. What is the difference between a Double Marker Test- First Trimester and an NT scan?

An NT scan is an ultrasound, and a Double Marker Test- First Trimester is a blood test. The doctor recommends both these tests during the first trimester to screen for the possible risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the unborn child.