@Redcliffelabs11
The Double Marker Test is a vital prenatal screening done in the first trimester of pregnancy, usually between the 9th and 13th week. It measures the levels of two key markers in the mother’s blood — Free Beta-hCG and PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A) — to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18) in the developing fetus. This test is typically recommended along with the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan for a more accurate risk evaluation. Although the Double Marker Test is not diagnostic, it helps identify pregnancies that may require further testing, like NIPT or amniocentesis. It is a safe, non-invasive method that plays a crucial role in early pregnancy care, helping parents and doctors make informed decisions about further steps in the prenatal journey.
