Triple Marker Test - Price, Normal Values, Report & Results

The triple marker test, or the triple screen test, is a prenatal blood test. But the question remains, what is the appropriate triple marker test time? Thetest is performed between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation. It involves analysing three specific substances in the mother’s blood:

1. Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP): This protein is produced by the foetal liver during foetal development. Some of this protein passes through the placenta into the mother’s bloodstream. Abnormal levels of AFP may indicate a higher risk of genetic defects. 

2. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): The placenta produces this hormone during pregnancy. The hCG levels help detect chromosomal abnormalities.

3. Estriol: It is an oestrogen hormone produced by both the foetus and the placenta. Low levels of estriol can indicate abnormal pregnancy risk.

The triple marker blood test aims to assess the risk of genetic abnormalities in the foetus. The test helps in the prenatal screening of the following conditions

1. Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): A condition in which the baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. 

2. Edward’s Syndrome (Trisomy 18): Babies with this condition have three copies of chromosome 18 at birth instead of two. 

3. Neural Tube Defects: These defects occur due to the failure of the neural tubes to close properly. The two most common neural tube defects include:

1. Spina Bifida: Incomplete development of the foetus’s spine

2. Anencephaly: A severe condition in which a child is born without certain portions of their skull or brain

4. Multiple Births: Triple marker test in pregnancy can also help determine if the mother is expecting multiple babies. 

The triple marker test estimates the likelihood of certain conditions in the baby. However, one must note that it is not a diagnostic test. It only offers a risk assessment and may require additional tests for diagnosis. 

The triple marker test offers several benefits for expectant parents during pregnancy. The test is especially beneficial for women with the following:

1. A family history of genetic conditions

2. Age above 35 years

3. Diabetes (women who take insulin)

4. Radiation exposure

5. Severe viral infection during pregnancy

6. Used harmful medications or drugs during pregnancy

Some of the benefits of the triple marker test include the following:

1. Safe Procedure: The triple marker test is a non-invasive blood draw test. It poses minimal risk to both the mother and the baby, making it a safe option for prenatal screening.

2. Screening of Potential Abnormalities: The test can identify the risk of disorders like Down syndrome early in pregnancy. This helps the parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy and the baby’s future.

3. Planning and Preparation: When potential health issues are detected, the test gives parents sufficient time to plan and prepare for the birth of a child with special needs. 

4. Avoiding Unnecessary Interventions: For parents with low-risk results, the test can help avoid unnecessary invasive procedures, which carry a slightly higher risk of complications.

5. Monitoring Multiple Pregnancies: It helps determine if the mother carries multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.). This helps the parents prepare for birth and assess the health of each foetus individually.

Preparing for a triple marker test is relatively simple. It usually does not require any special measures. However, the following are some general guidelines to consider before the test:

1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: The expectant parents should consult their healthcare provider before undergoing a triple marker test. They will give the required information about the test and address the patient’s concerns. 

2. Book the Test: The most suitable triple marker test weeks are the 15th to 20th weeks of pregnancy. Therefore, individuals must schedule the test during this time. 

3. Diet: Triple marker is a normal blood test that does not require fasting. 

1. Women should eat a healthy meal with proteins and whole-grain carbohydrates to prevent light-headedness. 

2. They should drink plenty of water before the test to stay hydrated. 

3. They must avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine for 24 hours before the test. 

4. Comfortable Clothing: When going for the blood draw, women should wear short-sleeved tops or loose clothing that allows easy access to their arms.

A triple marker test involves a simple blood draw from the pregnant woman. It is similar to any other blood test. The entire blood draw process for the triple marker test is usually quick and should not take more than a few minutes. Here is the step-by-step procedure for the test:

1. Positioning: The patient will be asked to sit on a chair or lie on the examination table. 

2. Finding the Vein: She will be asked to expose one arm. The technician will place a tourniquet (a tight elastic band) around her limb. This helps make the vein below the area swell with blood and makes it easier to find. 

3. Cleaning the Site: The technician will clean the area over the vein with an antiseptic and antibacterial wipe to disinfect the skin and reduce the risk of infection.

4. Inserting the Needle: Once the vein is visible and cleaned, the technician will gently insert a thin needle into the vein to draw the blood. 

5. Collecting Blood: The woman’s blood will be drawn from the vein and collected into a vial or syringe attached to the needle. 

6. Removing the Needle: Once enough blood has been collected, the technician will remove the needle from the arm. They will apply light pressure on the site and place a cotton ball or sterile gauze over the puncture area. A bandage or adhesive strip will secure the site and stop any bleeding.

The patient’s blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

Women generally does not require any specific care after undergoing the triple marker test. However, here are some general guidelines to follow that help enhance how they feel afterwards:

1. Wound Care: Individuals should not remove the bandage for at least four to six hours after the procedure. 

2. Exercise: In most cases, women can resume their normal activities after the test. However, they must refrain from strenuous activities that may cause bleeding from the site. 

3. Diet: Women should eat iron-rich foods after a blood draw to regain blood supply.

4. Ice Pack: Apply a cloth-covered ice pack on the hands or arms for soreness or bruising at the puncture site.

The triple marker test report is usually available two to four days after the test. It helps determine the mother’s risk of carrying a baby with a chromosomal abnormality or genetic disorder. However, the test is known to have a high possibility of false-positive results. Several other factors may also affect the test results, such as:

1. The mother’s age, weight, and ethnicity

2. Diabetic mother

3. Multiple foetus

Result Interpretation

The test results can be positive or negative. Triple marker test negative results mean that the levels of the three markers fall within the expected range for a pregnancy of that gestational age. On the other hand, the results are positive when one or more markers are outside the expected range for the given gestational age.

Normal Range

Triple marker test normal values suggest a lower likelihood of certain baby chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. Normal values are as follows:

1. AFP: 1.38 to 187 IU/ml

2. hCG: 1.06 to 315 ng/ml

3. Estriol: 0.25 to 28.5 nmol/l

Result Above Normal Range 

Triple marker test positive results do not necessarily mean a problem, but they may increase the likelihood of certain conditions in the baby.

1. Alpha-Fetoprotein: The most common reason for higher AFP is inaccurate pregnancy date. 

2. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: High levels of hCG may indicate multiple or molar pregnancy (fluid-filled sacs develop inside the uterus). 

3. Estriol: A sudden increase in estriol levels before the 37th week of gestation may indicate a risk of premature labour.  

Results Below Normal Range 

Lower than normal levels of these three substances also denote positive results. It may increase the risk of certain disorders. 

1. Alpha-Fetoprotein: Lower than normal levels of AFP, along with abnormal levels of hCG and estriol, may indicate conditions like:

1. Down syndrome

2. Edward’s syndrome

3. Other chromosomal abnormalities

2. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: hCG levels lower than normal may indicate ectopic pregnancy (implantation of the fertilised egg outside the uterus) or miscarriage.

3. Estriol:  Low estriol levels indicate the risk of Down syndrome. The risk increases when there is a low AFP level and a high hCG level.

If the triple marker test indicates an increased risk for certain conditions, further diagnostic tests may be recommended to confirm the presence of genetic abnormalities. Tests commonly used to obtain more definitive information include:

1. Amniocentesis: Removes a small sample of amniotic fluid for testing

2. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): Removes a sample of tissue from the placenta for testing

Genetic counselling is essential to the treatment plan for mothers with abnormal results. Genetic counsellors provide in-depth information about the specific conditions associated with the positive results. Furthermore, they help parents understand the available options and potential outcomes.

The triple marker test is generally considered safe with no risk to the mother or foetus. However, like any medical procedure, it has potential risks and limitations. It is essential to be aware of these factors before deciding to undergo the test:

1. False Positive: The triple marker test can produce false positive results, indicating an increased risk of certain conditions when the baby is healthy. This may lead to unnecessary anxiety. 

2. False Negative: The test can also produce false negative results, suggesting a lower risk when the baby does have a condition. False-negative results may cause a false sense of security.

3. Further Testing: If the triple marker test shows abnormal results or increased risk, further diagnostic testing is usually required to confirm the presence of any genetic abnormalities. These invasive tests carry a slight risk of complications, including infection or miscarriage.

4. Psychological Impact: Waiting for the test results, especially when there is an indication of increased risk, can be emotionally challenging for expectant parents. Moreover, if the results are positive, it can cause significant stress and anxiety.

Generally, the triple marker test price ranges from ₹ 2200 to ₹ 3000. However, several factors can influence the triple marker test cost in India. These factors can vary from one healthcare facility to another and may include: 

1. City or Location: The cost of a triple marker test can vary based on the location of the test. Urban areas or regions with higher healthcare costs may have higher test prices than rural or less costly regions.

2. Healthcare Facility: The type of chosen healthcare facility can affect the cost. Hospitals and specialised clinics may have different pricing structures than private laboratories or diagnostic centres. The cost can also vary from one diagnostic centre to another. 

3. Laboratory Technology: Using advanced laboratory technology or specialised equipment in the testing process can affect the overall cost.

4. Additional Services: If additional counselling, interpretation, or consultations with genetic counsellors are included in the test package, it may affect the overall cost.

Takeaway

The triple marker test is a critical prenatal screening tool that evaluates the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders in a developing foetus. The test offers expectant parents important insights early in pregnancy. While the test provides useful information, it is essential to remember that it is a screening tool and not a definitive diagnosis.

HexaHealth is your trusted partner in prenatal care, offering comprehensive support and guidance throughout the triple marker test process. With a network of advanced laboratories, HexaHealth ensures accurate and timely test results. From scheduling the test to interpreting the outcomes, we will help you make informed decisions about your pregnancy.

Suggested Reads-

1. Double Marker Test
2. ANC Profile Test
3. Double Marker Test in Hindi

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