Description
About Double Marker Test
The Double Marker Test is a prenatal screening test conducted during the first trimester of pregnancy to ...
assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. It measures two key biochemical markers in the mother's blood:
- Free Beta hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): High levels may indicate a risk of Down syndrome (Trisomy 21).
- PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A): Low levels may indicate a risk of Edward’s syndrome (Trisomy 18) and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).
This test helps doctors determine whether additional diagnostic tests, such as the NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) or amniocentesis, are needed.
Preparations Before a Double Marker Test
The Double Marker Test does not require special preparation, but a few points should be kept in mind:
- Fasting is not required – You can eat and drink normally before the test.
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
- Schedule the test between the 9th and 13th week of pregnancy, usually along with an NT scan (Nuchal Translucency scan) for better accuracy.
- Stay relaxed, as stress can affect hormonal levels in the body.
What to Expect During the Procedure
The Double Marker Test is a simple and quick blood test. The procedure includes:
- Sample Collection: A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in the arm.
- Lab Analysis: The blood sample is tested for free beta hCG and PAPP-A levels.
- Report Generation: Results are usually available within 2–3 days.
- Correlation with NT Scan: The doctor compares the results with the NT scan to evaluate any potential risks.
There are no side effects, and you can resume your daily activities immediately after the test.
Why Doctors Recommend Double Marker Test
Doctors recommend the Double Marker Test to assess the risk of genetic disorders in the baby. The test is particularly advised for:
- Women above 35 years of age, as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with age.
- Pregnant women with a family history of genetic disorders.
- Those who had complications in previous pregnancies, such as miscarriages or stillbirths.
- Women undergoing IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization), as some treatments may slightly alter pregnancy risks.
A Double Marker Test helps in early detection, allowing parents and doctors to make informed decisions.
Types of Birth Defects Identified by a Double Marker Test
The Double Marker Test does not diagnose birth defects directly but helps assess the risk of chromosomal disorders like:
- Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): Causes developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, and distinctive facial features.
- Edward’s Syndrome (Trisomy 18): Leads to severe developmental issues, heart defects, and low survival rates.
- Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): Causes severe brain, heart, and spinal abnormalities, with low chances of survival.
These conditions occur due to extra chromosomes in the baby’s DNA, affecting normal development.
Understanding the Test Results
The Double Marker Test results are given as a risk ratio:
- Low Risk: A normal result suggests a low chance of chromosomal abnormalities. No further tests may be required.
- High Risk: If the results indicate a higher risk, additional tests such as the NIPT, amniocentesis, or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) may be recommended.
A doctor will interpret the results based on your age, NT scan, and medical history before making further recommendations.
Tips to Reduce the Risk of Birth Defects
While genetic factors cannot always be controlled, certain lifestyle changes can help promote a healthy pregnancy:
- Take Folic Acid & Prenatal Vitamins: Helps prevent neural tube defects.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in iron, calcium, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Avoid Alcohol, Smoking, and Drugs: These increase the risk of birth defects.
- Stay Physically Active: Engage in safe prenatal exercises for a healthy pregnancy.
- Attend Regular Prenatal Checkups: Helps in early detection of any complications.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and hypertension should be kept under control.
Following these precautions ensures better fetal development and reduces pregnancy-related risks.
