What is the Double Marker Test?
Double marker test is a type of prenatal screening test that is done during pregnancy to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in a developing baby. The test involves analyzing a sample of the pregnant woman’s blood to look for two specific markers: human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A). These markers are produced by the placenta and can be used to estimate the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and trisomy 13.
The double marker test is usually done between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy and is often combined with an ultrasound to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities. The results of the double marker test can be used to determine whether further testing, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, is needed to confirm the diagnosis.
It is important to understand that the double marker test is a screening test and cannot diagnose chromosomal abnormalities or genetic conditions. If the results of the double marker test are positive, it does not necessarily mean that the baby has a chromosomal abnormality. Further testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. It is a good idea to discuss the risks and benefits of the double marker test with your healthcare provider and a genetic counselor before making a decision.
A double marker test is one of the tests for pregnancy, often recommended for the detection of any abnormalities. This is one useful pregnancy screening test to determine the healthy development of the foetus. The test helps
pregnant
women to determine any chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus. It checks for free Beta hCG, which stands for human chorionic gonadotropin and PAPP-A, which stands for pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A.
The test also makes sure to check for any neurological disorder in the foetus. This plays a vital role in the double marker test. This test can also detect neurological conditions such as Edward’s syndrome or Down’s syndrome. This test is done to identify if a foetus has any chromosomal abnormalities which can significantly affect the child’s development when born.
How much does Double Marker Test Cost?
Double Marker Test costs between 800 to 1200 INR
Why Double Marker Test?
A double marker test is significant as it helps you be assured that a healthy baby is growing inside. A double Marker test is done to evaluate the risk of your baby having Down’s syndrome or trisomy 18.
Down’s Syndrome: Down’s syndrome is also known as Trisomy 21. Normally
fetal
DNA will have 23 pairs of chromosomes, 23 from the mother and the other 23 from the father. But sometimes instead of 46 chromosomes, the DNA carries an extra copy of a chromosome or has a missing or structurally altered chromosome leading to genetic disorders.
What types of diseases can a Double Marker Test Test detect?
- Down’s syndrome
- Edward’s syndrome
- Patau’s syndrome
How long does it take to get the Double Marker Test results?
Your blood report will be updated within the next 3-4 days after blood sample collection. This test takes longer to report compared to most other blood tests.
