What is a triple marker screen?
Table of Contents
The triple marker screen test is also known as the triple test, multiple marker test, multiple marker screening, and AFP Plus. It analyzes how likely an unborn baby is to have certain genetic disorders. The exam measures the levels of three important substances in the placenta: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
What is the use of triple marker test in pregnancy?
A triple marker test is a prenatal test to examine the likelihood of birth/genetic/chromosomal defects in the to-be-born baby. The Triple marker test procedure is advisable for all pregnant women, especially if they report: Family history of genetic problems. 35 years of age or more.
How accurate is triple marker test?
For 35 years and above, the sensitivity was 80% (range: 75 to 100), the false-positive rate was 21% (range: 20 to 21) and the screen-positive rate was 20.9% (range: 20.6 to 21.0).
When is triple marker done?
The Triple Test can be performed any time between 15 and 21.9 weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period. The highest detection rate for open neural defect is 16 to 18 weeks. The results of the test, with a full explanation, are generally available to your physician within 48 to 96 hours.
Can double marker test be done after 14 weeks?
This blood test is valid anytime between 9 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. However, 10-13 weeks of gestation is more preferable.
What is triple marker screening?
Triple marker screening is administered as a blood test. It’s used for women who are between 15 and 20 weeks pregnant. An alternative to this test is the quadruple marker screen test, which also looks at a substance called inhibin A. What does a triple marker screen test do?
What is a triple screen test?
It is important to remember the triple test is a screening test and not a diagnostic test. This test only notes that a mother is at a possible risk of carrying a baby with a genetic disorder. The triple screen test is known to have a high percentage of false positive results.
Are there any risks/side-effects of triple marker test?
There are no risks/side-effects to either the baby or the mother in a triple marker test procedure. The procedure involves a normal blood test. The blood sample is then sent for a lab investigation. The triple marker test report is generated in a few days.
How long does a triple marker screen test take?
As mentioned above, the triple test can be conducted between week 15 and week 20 of pregnancy. However, the most accurate result can be obtained between week 16 and week 18. The results of the test are usually available within two to four days. How Should You Prepare for the Triple Marker Screen Test?