What Does the Quadruple Marker Test Measure?
The quadruple marker test measures chromosomal abnormalities such as Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), and Open Neural Tube Defects (ONTD) using four maternal serum markers:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): A protein produced by your baby's liver that helps assess neural tube defect risk.
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): A hormone produced by the placenta that can indicate Down syndrome risk.
- Unconjugated Oestriol (uE3): A form of oestrogen that helps evaluate chromosomal abnormality risk.
- Inhibin A: A protein produced by the placenta associated with Down syndrome risk assessment.
Quadruple Marker Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done
What Symptoms May Call for a Quadruple Marker Test?
The quad marker test is a screening test offered as part of routine prenatal care, not because of specific symptoms. The pregnancy itself is the indication for this test, as it helps assess your baby's health during the second trimester.
Who Should Get a Quadruple Marker Test?
This test is offered to all pregnant women as a routine screening option, but is particularly recommended for those with higher risk factors:
- Women who will be 35 years or older at delivery
- Women with a family history of birth defects
- Women who previously had a child with birth defects
- Women with Type 1 diabetes taking insulin
- Women who are exposed to viral infections or high radiation levels during pregnancy.
- Women taking certain medications that could affect the baby.
Why Is a Quadruple Marker Test Done?
The quad marker test provides expectant parents with crucial, non-invasive information about their baby's health, helping them make informed decisions about whether to pursue more definitive diagnostic testing.
Importance of a Quadruple Marker Test
The quadruple marker test is clinically important because it offers a safe, non-invasive way to identify pregnancies at higher risk for serious birth defects. Since it only requires a maternal blood sample, it poses no risk of miscarriage or harm to your developing baby, unlike diagnostic procedures such as amniocentesis.
Early identification of potential issues allows for informed decision-making, proper preparation for special care needs, and timely access to genetic counselling and specialist support.
Quadruple Marker Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India
How to Book a Quadruple Marker Test?
- Simple Online Booking
Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select the 'Pregascreen Quadruple Marker Reflex Test', choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
- Safe Home Sample Collection
Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
- Sample Tracking Updates
Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
- Accurate Laboratory Testing
Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
- Quick & Easy Reports
Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.
Is Home Sample Collection for the Quadruple Marker Test Available Near You?
Yes, home sample collection for the quad marker test is widely available across India through Metropolis Healthcare. Our trained phlebotomists follow strict safety protocols whilst collecting your blood sample in the comfort of your home. Our commitment to reliable testing means you receive the same quality care whether at home or in our labs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Quadruple Marker Test Report?
Reports are usually available within the same day by 9:00 PM once the sample reaches the lab.
Where Can I See or Get Quadruple Marker Test Results?
Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.
Interpreting the Quadruple Marker Test Results
What Your Quadruple Marker Test Results May Indicate
The table below summarises the reference values, expressed in Multiples of the Median or MoM, used in the risk of genetic conditions Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome).
|
Parameter
|
Trisomy-21 (Down Syndrome) MoM Cut-off
|
Trisomy-18 (Edwards Syndrome) MoM Cut-off
|
|
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
|
≤ 0.74
|
≤ 0.65
|
|
Beta HCG (Total)
|
≥ 2.06
|
≤ 0.36
|
|
uE3 (Unconjugated Oestriol)
|
≤ 0.75
|
≤ 0.40
|
|
Inhibin A
|
≥ 1.77
|
—
|
Understanding Abnormal Quadruple Market Test Results by Parameter
|
Parameter
|
High Values Indicate
|
Low Values Indicate
|
|
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
|
Neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects
|
Increased Down syndrome risk
|
|
Beta HCG (Total)
|
Increased Down syndrome risk
|
Increased Edwards syndrome risk
|
|
uE3 (Unconjugated Oestriol)
|
Generally normal variation
|
Increased chromosomal abnormality risk
|
|
Inhibin A
|
Increased Down syndrome risk
|
Generally normal or low in Edwards syndrome
|
Conditions that May Affect Quadruple Marker Test Accuracy
Several factors can influence your quadruple marker test results and should be considered during interpretation:
- Maternal factors like weight, gestational hypertension, diabetes, chronic liver diseases, and uterine fibroids
- Incorrect gestational age calculation affects risk assessment accuracy.
- Multiple pregnancies (twins or more), which alter hormone levels
- Foetal conditions like intrauterine growth restriction or oligohydramnios
- Placental factors, including placenta previa or altered blood flow
- Ovarian tumours or other maternal medical conditions
How Is a Quadruple Marker Test Done?
The quad marker test follows a straightforward blood collection process:
- A healthcare professional cleans the area on your arm with an antiseptic.
- An elastic band is wrapped around your upper arm to make the veins visible.
- A small needle is inserted into a vein to collect blood into a vial.
- The sample is labelled and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
- Advanced chemiluminescence immunoassay technology measures the four markers.
- Results are calculated using specialised software that considers your individual risk factors.
How Should You Prepare for a Quadruple Marker Test?
Preparing for the quadruple marker test requires specific documentation and timing considerations:
- No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test.
- Bring your latest ultrasound report: This helps determine accurate gestational age.
- Complete maternal history form: Provide accurate medical and pregnancy details.
- Optimal timing: Schedule the test between 14 and 22.6 weeks of pregnancy for the best results.
- Medication list: Inform your doctor about any medications you're taking.
Diseases that a Quadruple Marker Test Can Help Detect
This screening test helps assess risk for several important conditions:
- Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
- Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
- Open neural tube defects, including spina bifida
- Other chromosomal abnormalities
- Certain developmental disorders affecting the nervous system
Quadruple Marker Tests/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare
The following related tests and packages are available at Metropolis Healthcare to complement your prenatal screening:
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