Blood tests are a common diagnostic method used during pregnancy. It is a more secure method that gives a clear image of the elements influencing the developing foetus and enables prospective parents and medical professionals to stay updated about foetal growth, development, and associated defects.
During the second trimester of pregnancy, a conclusive blood test called the quadruple marker test is recommended which is often known as the quad marker screening.
What Is Quadruple Marker Test?
The quadruple marker test is a blood test recommended during the second trimester of pregnancy to look for serious malformations or problems that could affect the baby's growth and development.
As implied by the name, the screening considers four (quad) criteria to measures the levels of four substances in the mother's blood:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
- Estriol
- Inhibin-A
By analyzing these markers, healthcare providers can evaluate the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and neural tube defects like Spina Bifida. The doctors will advise additional testing to validate their fears based on the analysis of the triple test findings, which will reveal either low risk or high risk.
Generally, it is recommended by your doctor (OBGYN) between 15 and 18 weeks of gestation. The procedure can be prescribed up to 22 weeks gestation too.
In addition to testing for these anomalies, a quadruple marker screening can also be recommended by your OBGYN if:
- You are over 35 years old.
- You've previously given birth to children who have congenital abnormalities.
- You experience problems with insulin due to diabetes.
- You got a virus when you were pregnant,
- You're taking a harmful medicine, or you used drugs while you were pregnant.
Who Should Consider the Quadruple Marker Screening?
This test can be very helpful for:
Expecting women: Pregnant women who have a family history of genetic diseases or who have had children with chromosomal abnormalities in the past may choose to get the triple marker test to determine the risk for their current pregnancy.
Have advanced maternal age: Older mothers (often defined as 35 years or older) are more likely to experience chromosomal abnormalities. Additional data from the quadruple marker test may be used to direct future genetic counselling or diagnostic procedures.
Non-invasive screening method: The quadruple test, which just requires a mother's simple blood draw, is a non-invasive screening method. When compared to invasive treatments like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, it presents no risk of miscarriage or injury to the foetus, making it a popular choice for people who do not wish to have those done.
Also Read – Double Marker Test in Pregnancy: Normal Range, Procedure, Cost
How Is A Quadruple Marker Test Conducted?
A quick blood test is used to do the quadruple marker test in pregnancy. A sample of blood is taken from the patient's veins for further analysis.
There are no risks of any type to the mother's or the baby's health and the treatment is completely safe.
In addition, no particular prerequisites are necessary for studying for the test. Blood can be taken from the mother before or even after they eat or take their medicine. The test's time is also not subject to any regulations.
The doctor will advise additional genetic testing and laboratory analysis if the results are abnormal in order to rule out any chances of birth abnormalities in the growing foetus.
In India, a quadruple marker test costs INR 1600 or more. Depending on the city or the laboratory where the test is being performed, the costs may vary.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
