The double marker test is a prenatal screening test that checks for certain genetic conditions, like Down syndrome. It’s also known as the integrated screen or the quad screen. The  is usually done between weeks 15 and 20 of pregnancy,  and it involves taking a blood sample from the mother.
If you’re pregnant, you may have heard of the double marker test and wondered what it is. The double marker test is a prenatal screening test that checks for certain genetic conditions, like Down syndrome. but it can be done as early as week 11.

What is the Double Marker Test?

The Double Marker Test (DMT) is a blood  that can help to determine if a pregnant woman has a higher risk of having a baby with certain birth defects.
The DMT is usually done during the first trimester of pregnancy, and is often combined with other tests, such as an ultrasound. It’s important to note that the DMT is not a diagnostic test, meaning it cannot tell for sure if a baby will have a birth defect. However, it can give parents some peace of mind, or help them make decisions about their pregnancy.

How is the Double Marker Test performed?

The test looks for two specific markers in the blood: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). These markers are produced by the placenta and can be found in the mother’s blood.

A high level of AFP in the mother’s blood may indicate that the baby has a birth defect called neural tube defect. A high level of hCG may indicate that the baby has a birth defect called Down syndrome.
The results of the test are usually available within a week.

What are the benefits of the Double Marker Test?

The test can also help determine the risk of certain chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome.
The test looks for two specific markers in the blood: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

If the test results show an abnormal level of AFP, it may be an indication of a problem with the baby’s neural tube. This can lead to conditions such as spina bifida. If the test results show an abnormal level of hCG, it may be an indication of a problem with the baby’s chromosomes. This can lead to conditions such as Down syndrome.

The Double Marker Test is not perfect, and it cannot diagnose all birth defects or chromosomal disorders. However, it can provide important information that can help parents make decisions about their pregnancy and their baby’s health.
Some of the benefits of the Double Marker Test include:

1. The test can help determine if a woman is at risk for having a baby with certain birth defects.
2. The test can help determine the risk of certain chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome.
3. If the test results show an abnormal level of AFP, it may be an indication of a problem with the baby’s neural tube.
4. The Double Marker Test is not perfect, and it cannot diagnose all birth defects or chromosomal disorders. However, it can provide important information that can help parents make decisions about their pregnancy and their baby’s health.

Are there any risks associated with the Double?

– False positive results. This means that the test says you are at high risk for having a baby with certain conditions when, in fact, you are not.

– False negative results. This means that the test says you are not at high risk for having a baby with certain conditions when, in fact, you are.

– Low predictive value. This means that even if the test is positive (or negative), it is not very accurate in predicting whether or not you will actually have a baby with the condition.

These risks are why it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether or not the  is right for you.

When is the best time to have the Test done?

The best time to have the Double Marker Test done is during the first trimester of pregnancy, ideally between 10 and 12 weeks.
How long does it take to get results from the Double Marker Test?

It usually takes around a week to get results from the