Double Marker Test in Chennai

Also called: Maternal serum screening, First trimester screening, Dual marker test

SAMPLE: Blood
Report: Same or next day
PREPARATIONS: No special preparation

The test at a glance

What it checks: Double Marker Test test is a clinically significant diagnostic investigation used to evaluate, screen, or monitor underlying health conditions. It provides actionable insights that support early diagnosis, treatment planning, and long-term disease management.
Report delivery: Sample before 12 PM → by 8:30 PM today | Sample after 12 PM → by 1 PM tomorrow
Test for: Women, Family
Age group: All Ages
Commonly advised for: Developmental delay, seizures, low muscle tone

What is a Double Marker Test ?

Know More About This Test

The Double Marker Test is a prenatal screening test performed in the first trimester (11–14 weeks) of pregnancy. It measures two biochemical markers—free Î²-hCG and PAPP-A—to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Trisomy 18.

This test is often combined with nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound for greater accuracy.

Why Is This Test Recommended?

Early prenatal risk assessment
Screen for chromosomal abnormalities
Guide need for advanced diagnostic testing
Reassure low-risk pregnancies

Understanding the Double Marker Test

Abnormal marker levels do not confirm a disorder but indicate increased risk, prompting further diagnostic tests like NIPT or amniocentesis.

Who Should Take This Test?

All pregnant women
Women above 30–35 years
High-risk pregnancies

Preparation

No fasting required
Accurate gestational age essential

Results Interpretation

Low risk: No further testing needed
High risk: Diagnostic tests advised

FAQs

Is it mandatory? No, the Double Marker Test is recommended but optional, particularly for women over 35 or those with risk factors, as it provides valuable early insights without being required for all pregnancies.
Is it diagnostic? No, it is a screening test only and does not diagnose chromosomal abnormalities definitively; it calculates risk levels based on marker measurements, with high-risk results leading to confirmatory tests like amniocentesis.
Can it harm the fetus? No, the Double Marker Test is completely safe and non-invasive, involving only a simple blood draw from the mother with no risk to the fetus or pregnancy.
What if results are high risk? If results indicate high risk, further diagnostic tests such as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), chorionic villus sampling (CVS), or amniocentesis are advised to confirm the findings and discuss options with a genetic counselor.
Is ultrasound required? Yes, ultrasound is required for optimal accuracy, as it measures nuchal translucency alongside the blood markers to provide a combined risk assessment that's more reliable than blood tests alone.

Who should take this test

The Double Marker Test is a first-trimester screening test done in pregnancy at a specific week. It is meant for:

Pregnant women whose doctor has advised first-trimester screening
Women who want a risk assessment for certain chromosomal conditions
Women with a relevant family or medical history, as advised by their doctor

Double Marker Test testing in Chennai

Tapadia Diagnostic Centre in Chennai offers NABL-accredited Double Marker Test test from a Blood sample(s). Maternal serum screening, First trimester screening, Dual marker test is also prescribed for Developmental delay, seizures, low muscle tone. Established in 1989, this doctor-led diagnostic centre ensures high accuracy. Home sample collection and walk-in facility available at our Chennai center. Pay at the centre with no advance payment. Book online or visit us.