Double Marker Test – Early Pregnancy Risk Assessment for Chromosomal Disorders
The Double Marker Test is a vital part of first-trimester prenatal screening, usually conducted between the 9th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. It analyzes two key biochemical markers in the mother’s blood—Free Beta-hCG and PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A)—to assess the baby’s risk of developing chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 1 . This non-invasive blood test is often done in conjunction with a Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan to improve accuracy. While it doesn’t provide a definitive diagnosis, it helps in identifying pregnancies at higher risk, guiding whether further testing like NIPT or amniocentesis is needed. The Double Marker Test is safe for both mother and baby and plays an important role in ensuring informed, early prenatal care decisions.