Difference Between Quadruple and Dual Marker Test

Double marker and quadruple marker tests are recommended for women during pregnancy. These tests are conducted in the first and second trimesters of the pregnancy to check for any genetic disorder or risk for certain birth defects in the unborn child. 

In the first trimester, a double marker test, also known as maternal serum testing, analyses blood for specific chromosomal abnormalities. 

During the second trimester, a quadruple or quad screening test is used to assess the levels of four substances in a pregnant woman's blood. Women over the age of 35 and having a history of birth defects should consider getting dual and quadruple marker test at an affordable price. 

These tests, though they screen for any abnormalities in the growing foetus, are slightly different.

Timing of Tests

  • Dual Marker Test: There is a relatively slim window for conducting the dual marker test. Usually, it is conducted near the end of the first trimester, between weeks 11 and 14. The dual marker test cost may vary depending on the healthcare provider. 
  • Quadruple Test: Your healthcare provider will ask if you want to get the quad test done during the second trimester. The screening is performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, but more accurate results can be achieved between the 16th and 18th weeks.

Types of Pregnancy Hormones measured

  • Dual Marker Test: A double marker test includes a blood sample and an ultrasound. The blood sample is taken to look for two hormones—the free beta human chorionic gonadotropin and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A).
  • Quadruple Test: In a quadruple test, the pregnant woman provides a blood sample for lab testing. The test measures the four pregnancy hormones, which include alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), unconjugated oestriol, and inhibin A.

Abnormalities Predicted 

  • Dual Marker Test: Double markers test can predict the abnormalities but not confirm them. It can help in detecting Down Syndrome. Trisomy 13 (Patau’s syndrome), and Trisomy 18 (Edward’s syndrome). 
  • Quadruple Test: Quadruple tests assess more abnormalities than dual marker tests. It checks the chances of the foetus developing Down syndrome, Edward’s syndrome, Turner syndrome, spina bifida, and abdominal wall defects. 

These multiple marker tests, though optional, can be beneficial to check for any kind of difficulty in pregnancy. A dual marker test and a quadruple marker test are conducted in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, respectively. 

In addition to predicting Down syndrome and Edward's syndrome, which are predicted in the dual marker test, the quad test can also check for spinal bifida and abdominal wall defects.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Top Reasons Why a Regular Full Body Check-Up Is Crucial

Image
Regular health check-ups are a vital part of maintaining a heathy lifestyle. While it was okay to visit the doctor only when one felt unwell years ago, times have changed, and today’s fast-paced life has led to health taking the backseat for many. With rising instances of lifestyle diseases, being proactive with healthcare is one of the best ways to stay ahead. Following a healthy lifestyle with adequate nutrition in one’s diet and regular physical activity in their schedule is important for good health, but so are regular full body health check-ups. With irregular work timings, irregular sleep cycles, unhealthy eating habits, and constant pressure, many people in the working age group have become more vulnerable to developing lifestyle diseases. Regular health check-ups are essential for one to be able to keep a check on one’s health. Here are some reasons why booking a regular full body health check-up package is a good idea: Preventing Health Issues A full-body check-up includes sev...
Read more

Laboratory Testing in India: What You Need to Know?

Image
Top medical labs in India have test centres in different cities to make healthcare accessible to everyone. These laboratories have a wide range of medical screenings, including pregnancy-related tests, liver tests, and  anti mullerian hormone test at affordable pricesnull . Medical tests are essential for healthcare professionals to diagnose, monitor, and manage various health conditions. These tests can range from simple blood tests to more complex imaging studies. Understanding the procedures and how they are conducted can help individuals prepare and feel more at ease during their healthcare journey. Laboratory Test Preparation Top medical test centres have a standard protocol followed by medical professionals and phlebotomists who conduct the screenings. These professionals are highly skilled and adhere to the guidelines set by the medical laboratory. Individuals can ask their medical professionals about any test preparation required before the medical test. It is vital to disc...
Read more

D-Dimer Test: Everything You Need to Know

Image
What is the D-Dimer Test? The D-dimer test  is a blood test suggested by the doctor to determine the amount of D-dimer protein in the body that is usually produced to break down blood clots. When D-dimer levels are very low in the body, they can go undetected and can only be identified if the human body forms and breaks down a significant amount of blood clots. D-dimer testing is part of diagnosing or monitoring blood clotting problems. The human body forms a blood clot when any blood vessel is damaged due to injury, restricted blood flow, or atherosclerosis. Why a Person Needs a D-Dimer Test? A D-dimer test is recommended for a person when the doctor wants to know if the patient has blood clotting problems. Some of the blood clotting problems that may exist in a person are: Deep vein thrombosis Pulmonary embolism Blood Coagulation Disseminated intravascular coagulation The D-dimer test is also recommended by the medical practitioner as part of ongoing treatment. How is D-Dimer Tes...
Read more