Double Marker Test - Price, Procedure, Normal Range, Report

Table of Content

Introduction to Double Marker Test

During pregnancy, parents want to know everything happening inside the womb, if their child is doing ok or not, and what developmental stages the child has gone through already. As the fetus develops, there are chances that there might be some chromosomal abnormalities that the fetus has developed during the period. It is important to ensure everything is ok with the fetus, for the same reason your gynecologist suggests that you get the double marker test done done from the 9th to the 13th weeks of pregnancy. However, the ideal time to assess combined risk is the 11th to 13th weeks of pregnancy.

Double or Dual Marker Test is a blood test that is known as the maternal serum screening test; this test aims to determine if there are any abnormalities in the fetus. This test involves two markers: the beta HCG (human gonadotropin hormone) test and the PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein A) Test. If abnormal amounts of these markers are present in the body, there are chances that the fetus might have some chromosomal abnormalities.

When your doctor has suggested that you get the dual marker test, you can opt for Redcliffe Labs and avail of the home sample collection service to collect the blood sample from the comfort of your home.

Test Details:

When is the double marker test required?

Doctors suggest the double-marker blood test when the woman is pregnant to determine if there are any abnormalities in the fetus. However, there are cases where the female cannot skip getting this test done, or it may be risky for the baby.

• If the pregnant woman is 35 or older, there is a high chance that the fetus will develop any chromosomal abnormalities, so getting tested is important.
• If there has been a family history where the child has developed chromosomal abnormalities, then it is important to get tested; it would help diagnose or rule out any chances of the abnormalities.
• If the woman has been a regular smoker or drinker, they need to make sure to get tested, as it has been seen that smoking or drinking increases the chances for the fetus to develop any genetic disorder or chromosomal abnormality.

If you fall into any of these categories, you need to get the double marker test during pregnancy, as it helps give assurance that the baby is healthy.

What is the Purpose of the Double Marker Test?

The double marker test helps determine any abnormalities in the fetus. During the first trimester, the double marker blood test or maternal serum screening can report the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities. Redcliffe Labs offers the double marker test price at INR 2249, which monitors fetus development and the underlying risks of developing chromosomal issues. 

• It can help check the trisomy of chromosome number 13. Chromosome number 13 can cause mental retardation of the infant and severe congenital disabilities. 
• A double marker test can determine chromosomal aberration of 21, resulting in Down’s syndrome. 
• It can detect high-risk factors in pregnancy. 
• It can determine whether it would be detrimental to the mother’s health. 

What is the Double Marker Test Used For? 

The double-marker blood test can be used to detect abnormalities. There are other uses as well. 

• The test can detect and prevent Down’s syndrome in a newborn. 
• The doctors detect loss of muscle mass, a short neck, and excess skin at the back of the neck in an infant. 
• The test can identify ‘rocker-bottom feet’ disorder, which may lead to foot deformation. 
• The test can measure microcephaly, micrognathia, scrunched fists, arched spine, and abnormally shaped chest. 
• The test can detect delays in neurological functions of the brain. 
• A double marker test can differentiate between umbilical hernias (in case a mother carries the child). 
• The test is done for the well-being of the mother. It reveals upward slanting of eyes, stunted growth, flat facial features, and extreme physical and mental handicaps.
• In a typical pregnancy, the fetus comprises 22 pairs of XX chromosomes, and a male fetus contains 22 pairs of XY chromosomes. Instead of 46, when the affected person has 47 chromosomes, three copies of one of the chromosomes instead of two. This can cause intellectual and developmental delays in the unborn child.

What Does Double Marker Test Measure? 

The double marker test measures the levels of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) and pregnancy-related plasma protein A (PAPP-A) in the blood. Studies prove that hCG and PAPP-A levels are atypical in chromosomally defective pregnancies, where the test can detect these abnormalities and prevent Down’s syndrome. 

Why Can A Doctor Recommend The Double Marker Test? 

All three trimesters of pregnancy are crucial. Your doctor may recommend the double marker test to prevent difficulties before and after delivery. The test detects pregnancy-related proteins present in the blood. 

If you are 35 or above, they might perform the test to check potential risks of chromosomal abnormalities, especially with family history. However, the test results completely depend on your medical condition, history, and situation. 

Why Do You Need A Double Marker Test?

A pregnant woman needs the double marker test to know your baby's overall health. 

• A double-marker blood test can help prevent risks of Down syndrome in newborns. 
• It can also check for any deformities in the heart, stomach, lungs, intestines, and other organs. 
• It can also detect chromosomal abnormalities, which can help parents prepare themselves and their families for upcoming challenges. 
• It is an important prenatal screening test that can monitor underlying chromosomal abnormalities in an unborn baby. 
• The test helps parents make informed decisions about pregnancy and plans. 

Abnormalities that can be determined:

During normal pregnancy, the female fetus consists of 22 XX chromosomes and 22 XY chromosomes, and the dual marker test is recommended to determine if the fetus has these many chromosomes or if there is any abnormality. Some of the genetic or chromosomal abnormalities that can be diagnosed through this blood test are:

• Down’s syndrome: In the case of Down’s syndrome, the fetus has an extra chromosome or a piece of it. This extra chromosome creates both physical and mental issues for the baby, thus making life harder.
• Patau syndrome is also known as the trisomy 13 condition. It is one of the most commonly found chromosomal conditions; studies show that 1 out of 16,000 newborns suffers from trisomy 13. When suffering from this condition, the person may suffer from heart, spine, or brain-related abnormalities.
• Trisomy 18: This condition is also known as Edward syndrome, and in this condition, there is an extra copy of chromosome 18 in the body. The child may have major physical and mental issues and a low birth weight, all of which lead to major physical problems in the body. This condition is common in fetuses; however, it is not very common in live births, as in most cases, the fetus is lost to miscarriage.

These genetic conditions can be determined through the double-checker test, and knowing any conditions helps the parents be prepared beforehand.

Preparations Required Before the Double Marker Test:

There is no special set of rules that are to be followed before taking the dual-marker blood test. However, these are some basic guidelines to be followed:

• You are not required to fast before taking the double marker test, but if your health requires it, talk to your physician about any special dietary requirements.
• You are pregnant so you might be on any medication or supplement. It is important to inform your doctor about that as well. You do not need to panic in such situations; if they think there is an issue, they will tell you about the solution as well. 
• It is a blood test, so it is always recommended to avoid any workouts or yoga before taking the test.
• It is advised not to smoke or drink alcohol before taking the test because it may alter the test results.

If you follow these basic guidelines before taking the test and keep your physician in the loop, you are ready.

The procedure for the double marker test is:

This double marker test is like any other blood test, so the procedure followed is the same.

• The phlebotomist, on arrival, ties a band around your arm.
• They tell you to make a fist so the veins are properly visible.
• They disinfect the area from which the blood is to be drawn.
• Then, a thin, sterile needle is inserted into the vein to draw blood, and after removing the needle, a bandage is put on the punctured area.
• After drawing the blood, they put it in a vial, seal it, and label it.
• This vial is then taken to the laboratory to be tested.

Remember that the punctured area may have a stinging sensation for around two days. If it lasts more than two days or the pain is significantly severe, you should consult a doctor.

Understanding the Double Marker Test Results:

The double marker is a normal blood test doctors suggest for females during pregnancy. As the test helps in determining if the fetus has any chromosomal defects or not, it is one of the important tests your doctor recommends during pregnancy, so it is always suggested that you get yourself tested. Along with getting tested, you must know about the double marker test results, as it gives you an understanding of your reports when they come in. This helps you make important health decisions for yourself and your child.

When the dual marker test is done, it measures two parameters, i.e., the HCG value and the PAPP-A value. The normal HCG value for a pregnant female across all age groups is 25700 to 288000 mIU/ml, and the normal PAPP-A test for females is 1 MoM (multiples of median) across any age group.

For better understanding, the dual marker test results can be divided into two categories:

• No-Risk Condition: 

This is when the test results for both the hormones (HCG and PAPP-A) are in the normal range of 25700 to 288000 mIU/ml for HCG and PAPP-A for 1 MoM. High-

• Risk Condition: 

This is considered when the hormone levels vary extremely from normal. The abnormal levels are just an indicator of any abnormality. Still, they do not give any confirmation, so you must consult with your health provider as soon as possible so they can suggest all the tests you need to take further.

Interpretation of Double Marker Test Results at Redcliffe Labs 

Follow-Up Tests for the Double Marker Test

1. Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan—An NT scan with a double marker test is a prenatal screening test that combines an ultrasound and a blood test to check for fetal chromosomal abnormalities. It is usually performed during the first trimester of pregnancy and measures the fluid-filled space at the back of the baby's neck. Increased NT thickness can indicate a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities or congenital heart defects.
2. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): This blood test analyzes fetal DNA fragments in the mother's blood. It screens for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, and Trisomy 13. The test is highly accurate, noninvasive, and poses no risk to the fetus. 
3. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is an invasive procedure in which a small placenta tissue sample is collected to detect chromosomal abnormalities. It is performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.
4. Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is collected to analyze the risk of abnormalities. It is usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. The amniotic fluid contains fetal cells for detailed analysis. 
5. Detailed Ultrasound (Anomaly Scan)- A high-resolution ultrasound performed around 18–22 weeks of pregnancy. This identifies structural abnormalities and growth issues in the fetus.

Importance of Follow-Up Tests

The Double marker test in pregnancy evaluates the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in a fetus, such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18). Follow-up tests are crucial-

1. To confirm test results- High-risk Double marker test reports indicate follow-up testing to confirm the chromosomal abnormalities.
2. Reducing Uncertainty- Follow-up tests provide more accurate and definitive answers, reducing stress and helping parents make informed decisions.

What are the Benefits of the Double Marker Test?

The Double Marker Test has multiple advantages for to-be parents:

• It helps the parents understand the pregnancy and the condition of the fetus; it helps the parents make informed decisions regarding the pregnancy; and it lets them know about the fetus's health and if there are any abnormalities with the fetus.
• It is a simple blood test that has no side effects for the mother or the unborn child, but it provides major information regarding any chromosomal defects in the fetus.
• It provides the parents with peace of mind and can help them better prepare for the birth and the newborn.
• The test also reveals whether the pregnancy might cause harm to the mother’s health. 
• A double marker test is also affordable, making it easily accessible for women who can’t afford expensive diagnostic testing. Moreover, the process helps them learn about pregnancy-related risk factors. 
• The double marker test helps a doctor decide whether you need additional diagnostic testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus collection. This is to determine the source of the issue. 

What’s The Ideal Time To Perform The Double Marker Test? 

The ideal time to perform the test is between the 11th and 13th week of pregnancy. Doctors usually perform double-marker blood tests along with a Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan, which checks fluid under the back skin of the fetus’ neck. The test results indicate low, normal, or high risks. High risks don’t necessarily mean chromosomal abnormality. 

Double Marker Test Normal Range

The test detects Beta hCG and PAPP-A. Beta hCG is 25,700-288,000 IU/ml for every age, while PAPP-A is 1 MoM. 

What do the values of double marker test results indicate?

The values of double marker test results indicate whether your baby is at a low, moderate, or high risk for developing chromosomal abnormalities or mental challenges. 

If a double market test report shows a low-risk result, it is considered a normal outcome. This means that the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus is low. It is called a screen-negative result. 

If a double marker test report shows positive results, it may indicate a moderate or high-risk pregnancy. Hence, further testing, such as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

General classification for double marker test results: 

Is Triple Marker Test Better Than Double Marker Test? 

performed during pregnancy to check for genetic disorders, if any. Going by their names, a double marker test examines two hormones, while the triple marker test examines three hormones. A double marker test is performed within 13 weeks, and a triple marker test is performed after 13 weeks of pregnancy. The double marker blood test measures two substances, specifically hCG and PAPP-A, while the triple marker test measures three substances, specifically AFP, hCG, and estriol. 

A triple marker test is considered more accurate than a double marker test. It provides additional information to help assess the risk of fetal abnormalities. 

A positive result from either test does not confirm that the fetus has a genetic condition to be screened. Additional testing, such as amniocentesis, may be needed for a definitive diagnosis.

Redcliffe Labs offers affordable double and triple marker tests. Whether your doctor suggests one or the other, you can book a test from us. The double marker test costs INR 2249, which is reasonable and affordable for everyone.

Are there any risks associated with the Double marker test?

The Double marker test for pregnancy is a simple blood test without risks to the mother or the baby. Here are some factors you should consider before the test:

• Risks of Misinterpretation of Results- There is a possibility of:
• False positives: Indicate a high risk when the baby is healthy.
• False negatives: Indicating a low risk when there is an abnormality.

Misinterpreted results may lead to unnecessary anxiety or additional invasive tests, such as Amniocentesis, which carry a slight risk of miscarriage.

• Emotional and Psychological Impact—Receiving a high-risk result can be stressful and emotionally challenging for expecting parents. 
• Risks of Invasive Follow-Up Tests—If the Double Marker Test indicates a high risk, your doctor may further recommend diagnostic tests like Amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

Double Marker Test vs. NT Scan

Here is a similarity and difference between the double marker test and NT scan:

Similarities

• Both these tests are crucial components of prenatal care. 
• A double marker test and an NT (nuchal translucency) scan are noninvasive ways for an expectant mother and her doctor to learn about the chromosomal abnormalities in the trisomy 21, 13, and 18 fetuses. 
• Both tests alone show 70% to 75% accuracy, but when performed together, the accuracy increases to more than 85%. 

Difference

• An NT scan test is an optional ultrasound scan performed between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. A double marker test involves a blood draw between 9 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.

A double marker test checks two hormones: hCG and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A). The test results are measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) and milli-international units per milliliter (mIU/mL). The respect is that a test can measure your body's neck, nasal bones, and heart defects in millimeters.

Tips to avoid any birth defects:

If you don’t want your child to face any chromosomal abnormalities, then it is important to take all the preventive measures from the beginning of the pregnancy. Your doctor may give you advice, depending on your health condition. However, here are a few generic tips that would be beneficial for anyone pregnant:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: It is important to have an adequate amount of all the vitamins and minerals that help in the overall development of the fetus. Your baby depends on your food choice, so you must provide the fetus with all the necessary nutrients and avoid processed food as much as possible.
• Quit smoking or drinking: It has been seen that these habits can be responsible for the development of many different genetic conditions. The more people have started adapting to Western culture, the more genetic abnormalities have been increasing.
• Plan your pregnancy well: If you are suffering from any chronic condition like diabetes, you need to plan your pregnancy well because the high levels of glucose or any other condition may impact the fetus badly and can cause abnormalities.

These are a few things one can do to avoid any birth defects during their pregnancy. However, it would help if you always kept in mind that it is important to take a doctor’s opinion before changing anything in your lifestyle or dietary habits; they will suggest things based on your individual medical history.

Double Marker Test Price at Redcliffe Labs:

The double-marker test at Redcliffe Labs is available for a reasonable price range between 2149 and 2400. This price varies from lab to lab, but we at Redcliffe Labs try to keep the prices as reasonable as possible. You can get your test done in the comfort of your home from the ISO-certified and NABL-accredited Diagnostic Lab, trusted and recommended by many health providers.

If you are looking for a place to get tested, you can contact Redcliffe Labs and avail of the doorstep sample collection service. You get the sample collected from the comfort of your home and get the reports in a stipulated timeframe

Double Marker Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Pregnancy-Related Tests/Packages That You Can Book with Redcliffe Labs

What are the advantages of a non-invasive Double Marker test at Redcliffe?

• Redcliffe provides the most versatile and safe dual test for pregnancy
• The test is very accurate, detecting trisomies more than 99 percent of the time; the false positive rate is nearly non-existent, at less than 1 percent.
• The test is straightforward and efficient. Only 10 mL of the mother's blood is needed for the sample.
• The test provides an in-depth investigation of different aneuploidies that your child may have.
• Testing is highly efficient and there is no need to redraw the blood.

What are the factors that can affect the double marker test results?

The factors that can affect the double marker test results include:

• Maternal age: Older maternal age, especially if you are 35 years of age or beyond, the test can reveal a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities. It is crucial to know that birthing mothers at 35 or older may have an increased risk of complications. These can include miscarriage, genetic disorders, high BP, or gestational diabetes. 
• Gestational age is crucial for several reasons. A doctor suggests an ultrasound examination after amniocentesis to determine the gestation age, the position of the fetus and placenta, and whether the amniotic fluid is sufficient. 
• Ultrasound findings can help determine risks, including structural anomalies, genetic conditions, etc. 

Conclusion

The double marker test is a valuable tool for assessing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the developing baby. These may include Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, and Patau syndrome. The test is performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Early screening can help ensure that parents know their unborn baby is growing healthily. Additionally, early detection can lead to timely intervention, minimizing the risk of complications. 

The test provides peace of mind to expecting parents, especially those who are anxious about knowing the child’s growth inside the fetus. Consult your healthcare provider about this test, as his guidance will provide a comprehensive understanding, and if suggested, you can experience a healthy pregnancy.