A Double Marker Test is a type of test that is mainly given to pregnant women to determine any chromosomal malformation in the foetus.
Double Marker Test
Here are the basic details for Double Marker Test.
| Also Known As |
DMT Test |
| Type |
Free Beta hCG |
Purpose
|
Determine Chromosomal Malformation in Foetus |
| Sample Type |
Blood |
| Preparation |
No Special Preparation Required |
| Fasting |
No |
| Gender |
Female |
| Age-Group |
18+ |
| Normal Value |
25700 - 288000 mIU/ml |
| Reporting Time |
48 hrs |
Cost
|
1500 - 2500* INR |
*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.
Double Marker Test in Pregnancy
- The Double Marker Test is a prenatal screening test that measures the levels of two substances in the mother's blood: pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
- The test is typically offered to women who are between 10-14 weeks pregnant.
Double Marker Test Means
- The Double marker test is used to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, specifically Down Syndrome and Trisomy 18.
- Abnormal levels of PAPP-A and hCG can indicate an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
- The test is not diagnostic, but rather a screening tool to identify those at higher risk.
- If the test results indicate an increased risk, further diagnostic testing such as amniocentesis may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
Double Marker Test Purpose
- The Double Marker Test is a prenatal screening test performed on pregnant women.
- The test is designed to detect the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, particularly Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edward Syndrome (Trisomy 18).
- The test measures the levels of two pregnancy-specific hormones in the maternal blood - Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A (PAPP-A) and Free Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (Free β-hCG).
- The test helps in identifying high-risk pregnancies and deciding whether further diagnostic testing is required.
Double Marker Test Preparation
Here are the key points about preparation for, during, and after the Double Marker Test:
Before the Test
- No specific preparation is required before the Double Marker Test.
- However, it is recommended that you inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may affect the test results.
During the Test
- The Double Marker Test involves a simple blood draw from the mother's arm.
- The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
After the Test
- No specific aftercare is required following the Double Marker Test.
- Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results of the test.
- If the test results indicate an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, further diagnostic testing such as amniocentesis may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
- If the test results are normal, no further action may be required.
Double Marker Test Procedure
- The test involves drawing a blood sample from the mother's arm, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
- The test measures the levels of two specific substances in the mother's blood - pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (free beta-hCG).
- The test results are usually available within a week or two, depending on the laboratory processing time.
- A healthcare provider will review the test results with the mother and discuss any further testing or follow-up that may be necessary based on the results.
Double Marker Test Result
- The interpretation of the Double Marker Test results can be complex and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
- The test results are evaluated based on the levels of PAPP-A and hCG in the mother's blood, with abnormal levels indicating an increased risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities.
- The specific interpretation of the test results can vary depending on factors such as maternal age and other risk factors, and should be discussed with a healthcare provider for individualized recommendations.
Double Marker Test Report
Double Marker Test Report PDF
Double Marker Test Normal Report
Double Marker Normal Test Report PDF Format
Double Marker Test Normal Result Report PDF
Double Marker Test Abnormal Report
Double Marker Abnormal Test Report PDF Format
Double Marker Test Abnormal Result Report PDF
Double Marker Test Normal Range
Here's a table showing the normal range for Double Marker Test results:
| Marker |
Normal Range |
| Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) |
25,700 to 2,88,000 mIU/mL |
- It's important to note that the specific normal range for each laboratory may vary slightly, so it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider about your individual results.
- Additionally, abnormal test results do not necessarily mean that there is a problem with the pregnancy, but rather indicate a higher risk that further testing may be needed to confirm.
Double Marker Test Interpretation
While the interpretation of the Double Marker Test can be complex and should be discussed with a healthcare provider, here's a simplified table that shows the possible interpretations of the test results:
| PAPP-A Level |
hCG Level |
Interpretation |
| Normal |
Normal |
Low risk |
| Low |
Normal |
Increased risk |
| Normal |
High |
Increased risk |
| Low |
High |
High risk |
It's important to note that the specific interpretation of test results can vary depending on factors such as maternal age and other risk factors, so it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider for individualized interpretation and recommendations.
Difference Between Double Marker and Triple Marker Test
Here are some key differences between the Double Marker and Triple Marker tests:
| Double Marker Test |
Triple Marker Test |
| Done between 10-14 weeks of pregnancy |
Done between 14-20 weeks of pregnancy |
| Measures two markers: beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) |
Measures three markers: β-hCG, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and unconjugated estriol (uE3) |
| Screens for Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities |
Screens for Down syndrome and neural tube defects |
| Provides a risk score for the fetus having Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities |
Provides a risk score for the fetus having Down syndrome and/or neural tube defects |
| Less accurate than the Triple Marker test |
More accurate than the Double Marker test |
| May be followed by a Triple Marker test if risk for neural tube defects is still present |
Generally not followed by another test |
It is important to note that both the Double Marker and Triple Marker tests are screening tests, which means that they provide a risk score for the fetus having a certain condition. These tests are not diagnostic, and further testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis. The decision to undergo any prenatal testing should be made after a discussion with a healthcare provider.
Specimen Requirments For Double Marker Test
Here are the specimen requirements for Double Marker Test.
| Specimen |
plasma serum |
| Volume |
2 mL |
| Container |
3ml light green top tube container |
Double Marker Test is Safe?
- Double Marker Test is considered a safe and non-invasive prenatal screening test.
- The test is performed using a simple blood draw, which carries minimal risk of infection or other complications.
- However, like any medical procedure, there may be rare instances of adverse reactions, and it is important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
When Do You Get Double Marker Test Results?
- The results of the double marker test usually take about 48 hrs to come out.
- The timing of receiving the results may vary depending on the laboratory where the test was done.
- It's best to check with the healthcare provider about the expected timeline for receiving the results.
Double Marker Test Limitation
Here are some possible limitations of the Double Marker Test.
- Limited accuracy in predicting chromosomal abnormalities.
- Does not provide a definitive diagnosis, further testing may be needed.
- False-positive and false-negative results are possible.
- Limited detection for certain rare genetic disorders.
- Not suitable for detecting all types of birth defects.
Double Marker Test Risk Factors
Here is the potential risk factor of the Double Marker Test.
- Maternal age over 35 years.
- Previous history of chromosomal abnormalities.
- Family history of genetic disorders.
- Certain maternal medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
- Use of certain medications during pregnancy.
Doctor Recommendations After Double Marker Test Result
Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after Double Marker Test.
| Double Marker Test Result |
Doctor to Visit |
Reason to Visit |
| High |
Obstetrician |
Further evaluation and counseling |
| Normal |
Obstetrician |
Routine prenatal care |
| Low |
Obstetrician |
Further evaluation and counseling |
Double Marker Test Price
Here are the estimated Double Marker Test Price in India with different top cities:
*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.
Summary
Overall, Double Marker Test is a safe and simple blood test that helps to detect certain chromosomal abnormalities and assess the risk of Down syndrome in a developing fetu . Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.
Reference
- What is Double Marker or Dual Marker Test During Pregnancy? [1].
- When Is the Double and Quadruple Marker Test Done? [2].
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