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A prenatal blood test known as a double marker test, sometimes known as a dual marker test, is carried out in the first trimester to look for any potential chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Such chromosomal abnormalities may result in severe illnesses and diseases that can impair the fetus's or the child's development later in life. The double marker assessment may predict the likelihood of developing certain illnesses, such as Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome. This procedure is often advised since it is very trustworthy and effective at identifying problems.
The blood test is examined to see how much free-beta HCG and PAPP-A are in the blood. The double marker assessment is performed with an ultrasound; most of the time, the results are either positive or negative. The outcomes of the examination depend not only on the blood specimens taken but also on the mother's age and the fetus's age, which can be seen on an ultrasound.
In pregnancies with certain chromosomal anomalies, the levels of hCG and PAPP-A might be greater or lower than "normal," depending on the specific case.
However, blood levels by themselves do not deliver the desired outcomes. Instead, a blood test is utilized in conjunction with ultrasound, referred to as nuchal translucency (NT) scan. This scan looks at the transparent tissue at the base of your child's neck.
A blood sample is used in a triple marker screening test to determine how much HCG, AFP, and estriol are present.
HCG: A hormone that the placenta makes. Low levels may suggest potential pregnancy issues, such as an ectopic pregnancy or possible miscarriage. Multiple pregnancies, also known as molar pregnancy, are when two or more fetuses are present.
Estriol: It is a kind of estrogen produced by both the fetus and the placenta during pregnancy. Low estriol levels may indicate an increased chance of conceiving a child with Down syndrome, particularly when combined with low levels of AFP and high levels of HCG.
In pregnancy, the double marker test is distinct from the triple marker test due to the reduced number of hormones examined in the former.
The double marker test gives specific information on the hormones Free beta hCG and PAPP-A. In most cases, it takes place between the 10th and 12th week of pregnancy. To determine the blood levels of the three hormones Beta hCG, unconjugated estriol, and AFP, a test known as the "triple marker test" is carried out. This test is carried out between the 15th and 18th week of pregnancy. The test's primary goal is to establish if the growing fetus has Down syndrome.