Quadruple Marker Screening 2nd Trimester
The Quadruple Marker Screening test provides some critical information about a pregnancy – for instance, the likelihood of an inherited or genetic disorder occurring in the baby growing inside a pregnant woman. Yet, it is a presumptive and not a confirmatory test for the diagnosis of a specific disorder.
The quad test is useful for predicting developmental disorders in a baby, such as Down syndrome and neural tube defects. The test measures: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG), Inhibin-A, UE-Unconjugated Estriol, and Alpha-feto protein.
Why is the test done?
The test is a screening test, which may be prescribed to assess the risk of certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects and Down syndrome in a baby.Women who have conceived at an older age (35 plus age), with a strong family history of
birth defects or on insulin therapy may be at an increased risk of giving birth to a baby with birth defects.
When is the test recommended?
Quadruple Marker screening test may be recommended during 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm.
How to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is required for the test.
