Double Marker Test  In Pregnancy: What Does It Mean & How Is It Done

As you near the end of your first trimester, you may wonder: What colour will your little one have? Or who will they resemble, you or your partner? While these things may remain a mystery for a while, your ob-gyn might suggest certain screenings or tests that can help you learn more about your child’s development and growth. One such diagnostic tool is called the double marker test, which involves drawing blood from your body to determine the possible indicators of possible chromosomal abnormalities and other pregnancy complications. 

Read on to learn more about the double marker test in pregnancy, its administration, and what to expect from the test results.

What is a Double Marker Test?

The double marker test, also referred to as the maternal serum test is a part of the first-trimester pregnancy screenings. While it is not a definitive test, it is classified as a predictive screening, which means its results determine the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. 

The dual marker test screens for blood levels of both pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG). Generally, in a healthy pregnancy, there are 22 pairs of XX chromosomes in female fetuses and 22 pairs of XY chromosomes in a male fetus. However, if these levels are higher or lower than normal, then it could indicate chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, Edward’s syndrome, or patau’s syndrome.

To confirm the presence of congenital abnormalities, your doctor may also suggest an ultrasound along with the blood test, called a nuchal translucency test (NT), which examines the clear tissue at the back of your baby’s neck. 

Why is a Double Marker Test Considered Essential?

While the double marker and NT scan is not mandatory, it is considered essential for those over 35 years of age, or if you have a family history of congenital abnormalities. 

Also, it is important to remember that the test results only help determine if there is an increased risk of trisomies or congenital anomalies, but does not definitively tell whether your baby has any abnormalities.

When to Take the Dual Marker Test?

There is a relatively slim window during which the dual marker test can be performed. Your ob-gyn will suggest you make an appointment somewhere near the end of your first trimester or possibly even early in your second trimester. To be more precise, you will undergo the test somewhere between weeks 11 and 14.

Cost of Double Marker Test

While the cost varies from one hospital to another, the general price of the test ranges between Rs. 2,500- 3,500. Also, the double marker test is done in conjunction with the NT scan, and that may add up to the charge of the screenings. So talk to your hospital to get a clear idea of the price of the screenings.

How is the Double Marker Test Done?

The double marker test involves a simple blood test that you can take in a lab. It is a non-fasting test, which means you can eat and drink normally before your appointment unless you are instructed otherwise.

You will receive the double marker test results within three days or a week. Once you have the results, you can book an appointment with your doctor to discuss the results.

Standard Result of the Double Marker Test

You will receive a low, moderate, or high-risk result. A low-risk result is considered normal and means that there is very less probability of your baby having congenital defects. 

In case your result shows moderate to high risk of abnormalities, then you may have to book an appointment with a genetic counsellor to learn the further steps. The genetic coundellor might suggest you take more definitive tests, such as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), chorionic villus sampling, and amniocentesis to get more definite results. 

Since the double marker test is conducted early in pregnancy, it gives you ample time to do your research and prepare for treatment methods. 

Risks Associated with the Double Marker Test

Fortunately, there are no risks associated with the double marker test. It is a routine, and non-invasive blood test, and as long as you follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, you are good to go.

Conclusion

The double marker test in pregnancy is considered one of the crucial tests during the first trimester that gives a look into whether your baby has congenital defects or not. It should be taken along with the NT scan because the results from both tests combined can help determine if your baby is at a low, moderate, or high risk of having anomalies. The test is non-invasive and does not pose any risk to you or your baby. 

FAQs

In which month of pregnancy is a double marker test done? 

A prenatal blood test during pregnancy known as a “double marker test” is carried out in the first trimester of pregnancy to look for any potential chromosomal abnormalities.

What if the double marker test is positive?

If the double marker test comes positive, the doctor may suggest other diagnostic techniques such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sample to identify the issue.

Does a double marker test reveal the baby’s gender?

No, a double marker test cannot predict the gender of the fetus. This is due to the fact that this blood test is done to check for chromosomal abnormalities between the 8-14 weeks of pregnancy.

What if the double marker test comes negative? 

It means that there’s a low probability of your baby having chromosomal abnormalities.

Cover Image Credit: Freepik.com

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