Double Marker Test- First Trimester

A Double Marker Test- First Trimester, also known as a dual marker test, assesses specific biomarkers in a pregnant woman’s blood during the first trimester of pregnancy, usually between 11-13 weeks. It provides information about the risk of certain birth defects such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edward syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13) in the developing fetus.

Prenatal care is necessary to ensure a healthy pregnancy and successful childbirth. Early prenatal screenings identify potential health concerns and guide medical interventions when necessary. A Double Marker Test- First Trimester is an essential component of early prenatal assessment that offers invaluable insights into the developing fetus's chromosomal health. This test primarily focuses on two biomarkers in the maternal blood that the fetus and the placenta produce: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A).

The dual marker test screens the fetus for certain chromosomal abnormalities, particularly Down syndrome and Edwards' syndrome. These conditions result from the presence of extra copies of chromosomes 21 and 18, respectively, and affect the baby's physical and intellectual development. However, a Double Marker Test- First Trimester is just a screening test, not a diagnostic one. It does not determine whether your baby has abnormalities; instead, it tells whether the unborn baby is at risk of developing certain abnormalities.

The test results are reported as a risk score or probability of the fetus having a chromosomal abnormality. Test results within the expected range suggest a lower risk of chromosomal abnormalities, whereas high biomarker levels may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities and prompt further testing. Furthermore, a screen-positive result (high risk) does not provide a diagnosis but suggests that additional diagnostic testing should be considered. Also, a screen-negative result (low risk) does not guarantee the absence of fetal defects.

For combined risk assessment, the nuchal translucency (NT) measurement, a USG marker shown to be effective in screening fetuses for Down syndrome and Patau syndrome, is also included in the risk calculation along with maternal demographic information like age, weight, smoking, diabetic status, IVF pregnancy, etc. However, it is to be noted that this test does not screen for neural tube defects.

No fasting is required for a Double Marker Test- First Trimester. However, inform your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies before taking the test. Also, tell your doctor about the medications you are taking, as certain medications can affect the results of this test and might need to be discontinued.

Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The accuracy of the results is subjective to the information provided in the screening form, and this information is mandatory for combined risk assessment.