Dual Marker Test in Pregnancy: What Every Expecting Parent Should Know

Congratulations on your pregnancy. The new journey of your life has begun. But this journey comes with new challenges and a series of tests you must undergo. This is to ensure the entire pregnancy period passes smoothly. One such test is the Dual Marker test in pregnancy. Also called the double marker test, which examines the condition of fetus and if there is any chromosomal disease.

This article explores the Dual Marker Test in pregnancy, an essential prenatal screening used to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, especially Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome. We’ll cover what the test involves, what to expect during the process, the type of information it provides, and how it supports expectant mothers in making informed choices. Understanding the Double Marker Test report plays a key role in promoting a healthy and well-informed pregnancy.

About Dual Marker Test

The double marker test in pregnancy, commonly known as maternal serum screening, is part of the first-trimester screening. This test does not provide a complete analysis, but it helps to determine whether chromosomal abnormalities are likely to exist. This test is predictive, not diagnostic. Blood samples are analyzed for Free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (Free beta-hCG) and PAPP-A.

Any abnormal changes in the volume of these markers indicate the overall risk of chromosomal abnormalities, including Down Syndrome. Doctors don't recommend this test to every pregnant woman, but women who are above 35 or couples having a history of chromosomal disease may have to undergo the respective test.

About Chromosomal Abnormalities

Chromosomal abnormalities detected through double marker tests are the result of irregularities in the number of chromosomes within the fetus's DNA. Typically, a female fetus carries 22 pairs of autosomes and one pair of XX sex chromosomes. 

When chromosomal anomalies occur, this normal distribution gets altered resulting to- Down Syndrome and Edward Syndrome

Interpretation of Dual Marker Test Result 

Understanding the significance of the dual marker test in pregnancy is crucial. The results of this test can be interpreted in two ways:

• Screen Negative: A negative result indicates a low risk of chromosomal abnormalities. If the risk ratio falls between 1:250 and 1:1000, it suggests that the baby is less likely to have such conditions.

• Screen Positive: A positive result points to a higher risk of Down Syndrome. If the ratio is between 1:50 and 1:250, there is a significant chance of chromosomal abnormalities. A ratio between 1:50 and 1:100 indicates an even greater risk for both the mother and the unborn baby.

What is the Dual Marker Test Procedure?

The double marker test is typically conducted between the 11th and 14th weeks of the first trimester. It measures two key substances in the mother's blood: beta-hCG and PAPP-A. Beta-hCG is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the placenta. If the reports indicate elevated levels, there is a risk of Down syndrome. PAPP-A is a type of plasma protein, and reduced levels are also associated with a higher likelihood of the condition.

Alongside the blood test, doctors often perform an NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan, which uses sound waves to produce real-time images of the fetus. This scan is particularly useful for measuring the clear space at the back of the fetus’s neck. An increased amount of fluid in this area may be a marker for Down syndrome.

Preparing for the Dual Marker Test in Pregnancy

Since you are in the pregnancy period, you will have to follow some amount of care and preparation for the dual marker test. Here are a few things to consider-

• Test Schedule- The test is generally done on the 9th and 13th weeks of pregnancy.

• Fasting- Since the mother is pregnant, the test doesn’t require any fasting.

• Medical History- You need to present your medical history for better understanding.

Benefits of Double Marker Test in Pregnancy

Since the cases of Down Syndrome among kids are on the rise, it is important to undergo the double marker test. The double marker test helps to detect Down syndrome in neonates, as well as congenital malformations in different organs of the body. 

By undergoing the test, to-be parents will be able to get early detection of chromosomal abnormalities. This further helps in taking the right medication and preparing well.

Conclusion

To summarize, the Double Marker Test in pregnancy is an important prenatal screening technique that aims to provide you with important information about the health of your developing child—knowing about the various prenatal tests, including the Double Marker Test, as an expectant parent gives you the ability to make informed decisions throughout your pregnancy.

Thanks to its ability to assess possible chromosomal defects, the Double Marker Test helps to-be parents in assessing diagnosis and allows for appropriate medical treatments and counselling, as needed.