Double Marker Test Negative Means: Understanding What It Means for You

Pregnancy is always a time of excitement, expectation, and often, a myriad of medical tests to ensure that both the mother and the unborn child are healthy.

One of those tests, which are normally conducted during the first trimester, is the double marker test.

In case you do not know this term or are wondering what a negative double marker test means, continue reading for everything you would like to know.

A double marker test is one type of marker test that is performed in the first trimester of pregnancy. It is mainly conducted for assessing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the baby.

This test is considered an integral part of first trimester screening, which consists of the NT scan (nuchal translucency scan).

The double marker test procedure is a blood test that measures the levels of two specific substances in mother's blood, namely:

• Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A)

• Beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta hCG)

These levels, taken in correlation with the outcomes of NT scan, mother's age, and other features, guide one in detecting if a fetus is of low risk, moderate risk, or is at high risk to present certain genetic anomalies like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome.

The double marker test is particularly helpful in detecting chromosomal abnormalities, which are brought about by anomalies in the fetus's pairs of XX chromosomes or pairs of XY chromosomes. This test is highly recommended for:

• Women over the age of 35.

• Those with a family history of genetic disorders.

• Pregnancies where the NT scan indicates potential issues.

This test allows parents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about further diagnostic tests or interventions by identifying potential risks early.

If the double marker test results come negative, it indicates that the fetus is at low risk for chromosomal abnormalities.

It's good news since the level of PAPP-A and beta hCG is still within normal limits to your pregnancy stage.

A negative double marker test does not ensure that the fetus is not affected by genetic disorders, but the possibility of having Down syndrome or any other chromosomal defects is less likely to occur. The results must be interpreted along with other tests like NT scans.

Double marker test results fall into two broad categories:

• Screen negative: Low risk.

• Screen positive: High or moderate risk.

The normal range for the test depends on factors such as the age of the mother, gestational age, and the levels of PAPP-A and beta hCG.

If your results show a low, moderate, or high risk, your doctor may recommend additional testing, such as an amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), to confirm the diagnosis.

Several factors may affect the results of a double marker test:

The older the mother is, the higher the chance of chromosomal abnormalities.

A family history of genetic disorders increases the chances of abnormal results.

When the NT scan is used with the double marker test, it is very efficient in identifying abnormalities.

Twins or more can influence the results because beta hCG and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A can vary.

Although the double marker test is a straightforward blood test, there are some concerns to note:

Sometimes, the test may report an increased risk without any actual abnormality.

In some instances, the test may not pick up on a condition.

Due to these reasons, it is essential to interpret the double marker test results in correlation with other tests and screenings.

The double marker test procedure is typically conducted between the 10th and 14th weeks of pregnancy, making it an integral part of the first trimester screening. This test is usually paired with the NT scan, which measures the fluid accumulation at the back of the fetus’s neck.

Doctors often recommend this test if:

• The risk of chromosomal abnormalities due to advanced maternal age or other reasons is increased.

• The NT scan has shown to have some kind of defect.

• The mother is 35 years or more.

By detecting pregnancies with moderate and high risk, the test enables further diagnosis planning.

Terms used for the same thing interchangeably include "dual marker test" and "double marker test." Both are a type of screening test which detects the levels of beta hCG and PAPP-A.

The cost of the double marker test depends on the health provider and region. Generally, it falls between $50 and $200. Though it costs money, it is worthwhile to know the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.

The normal range for the double marker test is determined by the levels of PAPP-A and beta hCG:

High levels most of the time indicate the normality of pregnancy, however, lower levels may predispose the woman to threats.

High levels at times can be an indication of diseases such as Down syndrome. However, it can be very low.

Your health care provider then compares your results with the typical ranges for your gestational age then decides what action to take over the same.

When your double marker test results come back showing a moderate or high risk, take a deep breath.

This doesn't mean that your child will definitely be born with a genetic disorder. It simply means additional tests are required, including:

• Amniocentesis: a diagnostic test on fluid inside the womb

• CVS: a test of placental tissue

These serve as more definitive answers about the fetus's genetic health.

Associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and beta hCG are critical components of the double marker test. They identify anomalies at an early stage.

• PAPP-A: Its levels can be very low and point towards an increased risk of having conditions like Down syndrome.

• beta hCG: These can often be abnormal in case of chromosomal abnormalities.

The NT scan is conducted in conjunction with the double marker test to monitor the thickness of fluid existing at the back of the fetal neck. Together, both tests give a better definition of the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.

A double marker test negative can be very crucial in understanding what expectant parents have to go through while undergoing prenatal care.

The result will mean a low risk of chromosomal abnormalities, giving a clear sense of relief. Nevertheless, it is advisable to go back to your healthcare provider to interpret the results correctly and, if necessary, determine further actions.

This test, therefore, in the first trimester, is an important marker in indicating possible risks within the fetus.

The doctor can provide a comprehensive evaluation of the fetus's health by combining the results of this test with the NT scan and other factors to ensure the best possible care for the mother and child.

The double marker test, also known as the first trimester screening, is done by taking a blood test in the first trimester of pregnancy to assess risks for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome in the fetus. These markers are PAPP-A and beta hCG that are measured. It may be combined with the NT scan to give a comprehensive risk estimate.

A negative result shows that the fetus has a low chance of suffering from chromosomal abnormalities. The levels of PAPP-A and beta hCG must be in the normal ranges for that gestational stage. Still, even though a negative result is comforting, there is no promise that a fetus has no abnormalities whatsoever. Additional screenings and tests may be suggested to further confirm this result.

The double marker test is particularly recommended for women above 35 years, with a family history of genetic disorders, or when the NT scan result indicates possible risks. However, many doctors suggest it as part of the first trimester screening for all pregnant women to ensure early detection of potential issues.

* Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s).