When is a dual, triple and quadruple marker test done during pregnancy?

When is a dual, triple and quadruple marker test done during pregnancy?

Here is why your doctor sends you for these tests during your pregnancy.

Dual marker test

This is a screening or a blood test done during the first trimesterbetween the 11th and 13th week of your pregnancy. A dual marker test is done along with a Nuchal translucency scanor NT scan. The blood test measures two markers namely hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin), and PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein) whereas the NT scan measures the fluid under the skin at the back of the baby’s neck. The scores of both these tests are considered to check if a child suffers from Down’s syndrome. In case, of a risk of Down’s syndrome, the reports would show abnormal levels of hCG and PAPP-A and a higher NT scan value. Depending on the results, the expectant mother either falls in ‘screen positive or high risk’ or ‘screen negative or low risk’ category. In India, the chance of a mother carrying a Down’s syndrome baby is 1 in 350. If the risk is less, the mother falls in ‘screen negative’ category. Depending on the result, the expectant mother will be advised to go for a more invasive test like amniocentesis or CVS sampling.

Triple and quadruple marker test

A triple or a quadruple marker test is done during the second trimesterof pregnancy, ideally during the 15th to 20th week. A quadruple marker is more sensitive than a triple marker test and a mother is usually asked to go for the same to ascertain genetic defects in the foetus. In a quadruple marker, four markers in the blood are measured, namely b-hCG (beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotrophin), AFP (serum alpha-fetoprotein), uEst (unconjugated estriol) and Inhibin A. In case, you have a risk of carrying a Down’s syndrome baby, the levels of hCG would be high while AFP and uEst would be low. Depending on the results, the mother will be put in high or low-risk category. Doctors will then suggest other invasive tests.

P.S.: All these screening tests have an accuracy of 99.9 percent. Any major decisions taken should be done after detailed consultation with the doctor.

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