What is Quadruple marker test?
The quadruple marker test is a prenatal screening test that measures four blood markers to identify the risks of genetic disorders in the fetus namely trisomy 21(down syndrome), 18(Edward syndrome)and 13(Patau syndrome) and also risk of neural tube defect in the baby. It is done at 15- 20weeks of pregnancy. It is blood test.
Chromosomal anomalies can result in serious illnesses and disorders that might impair a child’s development during pregnancy or later in life. This test enables one to foresee the presence or potential occurrence of such conditions.
What does the quadruple test involve?
A sample of your blood will be taken to measure four substances in your blood:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- Total human chorionic gonadotophin (hCG)
- Unconjugated oestriol (uE3)
- Inhibin-A (inhibin)
What does the quadruple test screen for?
Down’s syndrome: The quadruple test screens for Down’s syndrome. In pregnancies with Down’s syndrome, AFP and uE3 levels tend to be low and hCG and inhibin levels tend to be raised. It is important to note the quadruple screening test is not as accurate as the first trimester combined screening test. It can detect down syndrome in around 70% cases.
Screening for Edwards’ syndrome and Patau’s syndrome
Neural tube conditions: The level of AFP is measured to identify pregnancies at increased chance of having a baby with a neural tube condition, such as spina bifida.
Occasionally, some other conditions can be suspected in this test.
What does the results mean?
It is important to keep in mind that this is a screening test and categorises babies into low risk and high risk. This will not tell whether your baby has a problem or not.
Screening is not perfect and might provide an incorrect result. It may lead to personal choices about your pregnancy.
If the result is low risk, it is unlikely for your baby to develop down syndrome.
If the result is high risk for a particular condition, It does not mean that your baby has a problem. You should consult your obstetrician/fetal medicine specialist to decide on further diagnostic testing available.
Is the test mandatory?
No. This is an optional test, but it advisable to get it done. If you have any concerns about the test, please talk to your obstetrician gynaecologist/Fetal medicine specialist.