What is the Double Marker Test?
The double marker test is a prenatal screening performed between the 10th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. It assesses the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, specifically Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18).
How Does the Test Work?
The double marker test measures the levels of two specific substances in the mother’s blood: free beta-hCG and PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A). These markers can provide valuable insights into the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities.
Why is it Important?
The double marker test is crucial as it helps expecting parents make informed decisions regarding further diagnostic tests or necessary preparations. It’s a non-invasive procedure offering high accuracy when combined with an ultrasound for nuchal translucency measurement.