Double Marker Test - Price, Report Images & Normal Values

The double marker test is also known as the maternal serum screening or the first-trimester screening. This test is specifically done to detect the presence of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau’s syndrome, etc., in a developing foetus. 

Maternal serum screening measures the levels of two substances in the mother's blood - beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A). Abnormal levels of these markers can indicate an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities.

The double marker test in pregnancy normal values can vary depending on the laboratory and the specific gestational age at the testing time. However, in general, average values for beta-hCG are between 25700-288000   mIU/mL, and the average values for PAPP-A is 1 MoM.

Prenatal screening tests have become an important part of pregnancy care. These tests allow healthcare professionals to assess the risk of certain foetal abnormalities and can help parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy.

It is not yet known why these abnormalities occur in foetus but there are a few tests that can help with diagnosis. One such test that can help with the identification of chromosomal or neural defect is the double marker testing pregnancy, a simple blood test that can help diagnose certain conditions like-

1. Down syndrome: It is a genetic disorder that causes developmental delays and intellectual disabilities. There is a defect at chromosome number 21.

2. Edwards syndrome: Also known as Trisomy 18. This condition is generally caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18. It can cause developmental delays, heart defects, and other abnormalities.

3. Patau syndrome: This is a rare condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13. It can cause severe developmental abnormalities, heart defects, and other health problems.

4. Neural tube defects: These are associated with congenital disabilities that affect the brain, spinal cord, or spinal column. Examples include spina bifida (a birth defect that takes place when the spine and spinal cord do not form properly) and anencephaly (a birth defect in which the brain and the skull bones don't form completely when in the womb).

If you are still wondering why a double marker test in pregnancy is crucial, then the answer is simple. This essential prenatal screening test significantly helps in the detection and prevention of not just Down syndrome in newborns but also other health conditions.

Other health conditions like deformities in the lungs, stomach, heart, intestines and other vital organs may also be diagnosed. The dual marker test in pregnancy has been known to be beneficial in the following ways :

1. Early detection

2. Non-invasive and low risk

3. High sensitivity and specificity

4. Timely decision making

5. Personalized care 

6. Minimum risk of invasive tests

Now that it is clear what is double marker blood test in pregnancy, it is time to know what one needs to is done in the test. Before undergoing a double marker test, it is essential to prepare appropriately to ensure the safety and accuracy of the test results.

Some basic things that must always be taken into deep consideration for double marker blood test are:

1. The doctor should constantly be updated about the medical history and the use of medications.

2. You may be asked to discontinue the use of certain medications before taking the blood test.

3. It is a non-fasting test, so there are no restrictions, and a person can eat or drink anything unless instructed otherwise.

4. Wear comfortable clothing - Loose-fitting clothing will allow easy access to your arm for blood collection. Comfortable clothing can help you relax during the procedure and make the blood draw more efficient.

Wondering when a double marker test in pregnancy is performed? The ideal time for dual marker test in pregnancy is 11 to 13 weeks. The double-marker blood test is a simple procedure that requires no preparation. An ultrasound examination is usually the first step in a double-marker test followed by a blood test.

Here is a detailed description of how the double marker test is performed:

1. The blood sample is taken by a healthcare provider from the pregnant woman's arm using a needle and syringe.

2. This blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

3. A lab technician measures the levels of beta-hCG and PAPP-A in the blood sample.

4. They compare the levels of beta-hCG and PAPP-A to average values for the woman's gestational age.

5. They calculate a risk score based on the woman's age, gestational age, and levels of beta-hCG and PAPP-A. This risk score indicates the likelihood of the foetus having certain abnormalities.

6. The doctor discusses the double marker test results with the pregnant woman and may recommend further testing or monitoring if necessary.

Typically, no after-care is required after a dual marker test in pregnancy. The woman can typically resume her normal activities immediately after the test, although she should follow any specific instructions provided by her doctor. 

The double marker test report is usually available within three days to a week. Once the results are received, the doctor will schedule an appointment to discuss the results. 

In the first trimester, the NT scan (a nuchal translucency scan is used to screen the baby for certain abnormalities. This test is generally scheduled between weeks 11 and 13 of pregnancy) and double marker tests are used together for the most accurate results.

The double marker test normal report images determines whether the patient is at low, moderate, or high risk of abnormalities.  

1. Double marker test low-risk means ("screen-negative") a "normal" result and indicates that a baby is unlikely to have chromosomal abnormalities.

2. If a person's result falls within the double marker test normal range, they will only be recommended for further testing if there is another indicator (such as family history, age, etc.) or if they want to learn more about their pregnancy.

3. It is wrong to think that a double marker test results low-risk means that the baby will be fine. It's also necessary to consider that first-trimester screening is only available for Down syndrome, trisomy 13, and trisomy 18 markers, not other defects.

The double marker test is a prenatal screening test used to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in a developing foetus. Double marker test report may help in early diagnosis and timely treatment plan. 

Double marker test normal values: In some cases, especially if the chromosomal abnormalities are mild or not life-threatening, no specific treatment may be necessary. Double marker test low risk means, close monitoring throughout the pregnancy to manage any potential complications.

Double marker test negative means there's a low probability of the baby having chromosomal abnormalities.

Positive double marker: For more severe chromosomal abnormalities that result in birth defects or developmental issues, a multidisciplinary approach with supportive care may be recommended. IF double marker test result is positive or Double marker test high result means involvement of  medical management of symptoms, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions to support the child's development and well-being.

Pregnancy Termination: After double marker test report analysis, in cases where a severe chromosomal abnormality is detected, some parents may choose to terminate the pregnancy. This decision is deeply personal and should be made after careful consideration and counseling.

If you or someone you know has received double marker test results and are unsure about the implications or the next steps, it's crucial to discuss the results with a healthcare provider who can provide appropriate guidance based on the specific circumstances and the latest medical knowledge available.

The double marker test is relatively safe and one of the most widely used tests. However, like any other test, some risks are closely associated with it. These include: 

1. False positives - Sometimes, the double marker test can yield false positive results. These tests indicate a high risk of chromosomal abnormality in cases where the foetus is actually normal.

2. False negatives - The double marker test results can also be false negatives. This means that they can indicate a low risk of chromosomal activity when the foetus is actually affected.

3. Limited scope - One of the biggest disadvantages of the double marker test is that it can only detect problems like Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome. It fails to diagnose other chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders. 

The double-marker blood test in pregnancy is a non-invasive blood test. Even though there are no primary risks associated with this test, it is essential that the pregnant woman is following the doctor's instructions.

The many risks closely associated with delaying the double marker blood test in pregnancy include: 

1. Delayed or missed detection of genetic disorders

2. Increased levels of anxiety and stress

3. Missed opportunities for early intervention

4. Reduced time for decision-making

The double marker test is among the many essential tests that a pregnant woman must get done. Just like any other test, the price of a test is dependent on multiple factors. It is best to consult the healthcare provider to know the exact pricing. The price of the double marker blood test varies between ₹ 1000 to 4000.  The double marker test cost depends on several factors, such as 

1. Hospital - The prices of the double marker test are sure to vary on the basis of the choice of the testing lab, hospital, or clinic chosen by the patient. For example, the price of the tests in government hospitals is sure to differ from the private facilities.

2. City - The location or the place where the test is getting done also influences the cost. There are sure to be changed from small villages to big cities.

3. Other tests -  Another factor that influences the cost is if one has been recommended to get more tests done at the same time.

The dual marker test or the double marker test is a prenatal screening test that measures essential substances in the blood of a pregnant woman. However, there are many myths related to this test. Let's have a quick look at not just the myths but also the facts.

Myth - The double marker test diagnoses chromosomal abnormalities.
Fact - The double marker test is a screening test and not a diagnostic test. It helps in the assessment of certain chromosomal abnormalities, but many do not always provide a definitive diagnosis.

Myth - The double marker test is always 100% accurate
Fact -  The double marker test is not always 100% accurate. This test correctly identifies abnormalities in 85-90% of pregnancies. 

Myth -  This test is invasive and carries the risk of miscarriages.
Fact -  This is a non-invasive and safe blood test that does not impose the threat of miscarriage.

Myth - The double marker test is only for women above the age of 35.
Fact -  Even though the risk of chromosomal abnormalities tends to increase with age, the double marker test is recommended for all pregnant women despite their age.

The primary purpose of the double marker test is to diagnose chromosomal abnormalities in the foetus in the initial stages of pregnancy. It is a simple and mostly pain-free procedure. This test plays a significant role in keeping the would-be parents informed of any kind of abnormalities and helps them in making informed decisions. 

However, one needs to know that the double market test is a screening test and not a diagnostic test. Compared with other invasive tests, a double-marker blood test is far safer. 

HexaHealth is one of the most promising and reliable names when it comes to top-notch platforms for health. A team of experts, we have incorporated the best tools and technologies to develop a portal that assists you in all your medical journeys, big or small. 

From finding the best hospitals to the best doctors, free consultations, and health checkups, we are here to guide you through it all. Contact us today to learn more about double marker tests in pregnancy.

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