Triple Marker Test

Description

Triple Marker Test

Triple marker test do in Second Trimester.

When is the triple marker test performed?

Triple marker test is performed in pregnant women at the end of the first trimester and at the beginning of the second trimester. This test is used to detect any genetic disorders in the fetus. It measures the levels of estriol, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).

These three are important substances in the placenta. This is mostly recommended in pregnant women who had a family history of birth defects or birth disorders, women above 35 years of age, considering the weight of women, diabetes, ethnicity, etc.

What is the importance of the triple marker test?

Estriol: It is an estrogen that comes from the placenta and the fetus. If the estradiol levels are low, it may show Down’s syndrome. Down’s syndrome is the delay of growth, development, and intelligence because of chromosome 21 disorder. This will be more prominent if the alpha-fetoprotein is low and human chorionic gonadotropin levels are high.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG): This is a hormone produced by the placenta. If human chorionic gonadotropin levels are decreased, it may show problems with pregnancy, like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy (where the fetus grows outside the uterus mostly in the fallopian tube). If the human chorionic gonadotropin levels are increased, it may show a molar pregnancy or pregnancy with two or more children called multiple pregnancies.

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): This is a protein produced by the fetus. If this alpha-fetoprotein level is raised, it may be because of potential defects like neural tube defects or failure of the fetus’s abdomen to close.

Hence, this test helps in detecting if the baby is suffering from any genetic disorders like Down’s syndrome or Edward syndrome. Edward’s syndrome is a condition that leads to severe developmental delays because of a chromosome 18 abnormality. This is a very beneficial method to detect any genetic defects in the baby before their birth.

This test provides a probable ratio of the unborn baby having a chromosomal defect. If the ratio is high, then further tests like amniocentesis should be carried out.

1. Unconjugated Estradiol (E3)
2. BHCG
3. Alpha-fetoprotein

Triple marker test conditions

Note:

• Do In 2nd Trimester Of Pregnancy
• Latest USG Report Required
• Overnight fasting is not required
• Doctor’s prescription may be needed
• The test result may vary depending on age, health history, etc.
• Ideal for pregnant female above 35yrs
• Before interpreting the results, one should keep in mind that this is not a diagnostic test but a screening test.

Also known as Triple Marker Second Trimester Blood, Triple test, Triple Marker Test 2nd Trimester, Triple Marker – Second Trimester,

Checkout for Any Offers & Discount Coupons

Speak or WhatsApp 919766060629

Read our Article On Pregnancy

Watch On YouTube