Double Marker Test in Pregnancy What You Need to Know
The double marker test is a blood test that is used to screen for the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus during the first trimester of pregnancy. The test measures two substances in the mother’s blood
* PAPP-A Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A
* Free beta-hCG Free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin
A high level of PAPP-A and a low level of free beta-hCG can indicate an increased risk of Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, or Patau syndrome. However, it is important to note that the double marker test is not a diagnostic test. If the results of the test are positive, it means that the mother is at an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, but it does not mean that the baby definitely has a problem.
The double marker test is typically performed between weeks 9 and 13 of pregnancy. It is usually done in conjunction with an ultrasound scan, which can help to confirm the accuracy of the test results.
If the results of the double marker test are positive, the mother may be offered further testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS). These tests are more invasive, but they can provide a definitive diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities.
The double marker test is a safe and relatively non-invasive test. It is a good option for pregnant women who are interested in screening for chromosomal abnormalities early in pregnancy.
When is the double marker test done
The double marker test is typically performed between weeks 9 and 13 of pregnancy. This is the ideal time to do the test because the levels of the two substances being measured (PAPP-A and free beta-hCG) are highest at this stage of pregnancy.
What are the benefits of the double marker test
The double marker test can help to identify pregnant women who are at an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality. This information can help women to make informed decisions about their pregnancy, such as whether or not to pursue further testing.
The double marker test is also a relatively safe and non-invasive test. It does not require any needles or ultrasound, so it is a good option for pregnant women who are looking for a screening test that is gentle on the body.
What are the risks of the double marker test
The double marker test is a safe test with few risks. However, there is a small chance of false positives and false negatives. A false positive means that the test results indicate that the mother is at an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, when in fact the baby is healthy. A false negative means that the test results indicate that the mother is not at an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, when in fact the baby does have a problem.
What should I do if my double marker test results are positive
If your double marker test results are positive, it does not mean that your baby definitely has a chromosomal abnormality. However, it does mean that you are at an increased risk of having a baby with a problem. You will likely be offered further testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS). These tests are more invasive, but they can provide a definitive diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities.
If you have any questions or concerns about the double marker test, talk to your doctor. They can help you to understand the risks and benefits of the test and make the best decision for you and your baby.
