Quadruple and Triple Screen Test: Assessing the Risk of Birth Defects During Pregnancy

 


Quadruple and triple marker screen test is a blood test conducted during pregnancy which determines if the baby is at risk of birth defects. These tests are done at the second trimester of the pregnancy, which is performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, but more accurate results can be achieved between the 16th and 18th weeks. The triple marker test is used to assess the levels of three substances in a pregnant woman's blood. Whereas the quadruple marker test assesses four substances. Women over the age of 35 and having a history of birth defects should consider getting these tests done.

Why are the Tests Performed?

The purpose of the tests is to determine the baby's risk for specific birth defects such as genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities. These tests are screening tests, and they check only the risk. They do not diagnose the problem, and a positive result means you need further testing. To determine the chance of having a birth defect, certain factors are considered:

·   Your age

·   Family history

·   Your weight

·   Baby’s gestational age

What are Triple and Quadruple Marker Screen Tests?

Triple Marker Test

·        Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP): AFP is produced by the foetus's liver. If the test shows a high level of AFP, it could mean the foetus has a spinal defect or the foetal brain, reduced skull development (anencephaly), or you are expecting multiple births. Low AFP could mean there’s a higher risk of the foetus having Down or Edwards syndrome.

·        Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG): The placenta produces the HCG hormone, which is typically detected in urine and blood tests to confirm the pregnancy. High levels of hCG mean an increased risk of the foetus having Down Syndrome.

·        Unconjugated Estriol: It is a form of the hormone estrogen produced by the foetus and placenta. Low levels indicate a higher risk of steroid sulfate, Down Syndrome, or a rare and severe disorder known as Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS).

Quadruple Marker Test

The test measures four hormones related to pregnancy, three including the triple marker test AFP, HCG, and unconjugated estriol, and the fourth, inhibin-A.

·        Inhibin-A: It is a protein produced by the ovaries and the placenta. If Inhibin-a levels are higher than expected, the risk of having a baby with Down Syndrome increases significantly.

The triple and quadruple marker test prices are quite affordable. They are an essential prenatal screening tool that helps assess the risk of certain birth defects in a foetus. Women over the age of 35, those with a family history of birth defects, or those with other risk factors should consider taking these tests as part of their prenatal care. Beyond prenatal tests, Max Lab also offers a holistic full body checkup in Bhubaneswar designed for women’s unique health needs—whether you’re planning a pregnancy, currently expecting, or focusing on long-term wellness. From hormonal panels to metabolic and organ function tests, our comprehensive packages give you a complete picture of your health.

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