Understanding what a double marker test positive means for you
Time to read 6 min
Time to read 6 min
Pregnancy is a long haul that fills people's lives with joy, anticipation, and a wide range of medical tests that work to ensure the healthiness of the mother and the baby.
Out of all these prenatal screenings one such test is the double marker test, which is essential, and is carried out in the first trimester of pregnancy; it works to determine and assess the risk of having chromosomal abnormalities in a developing fetus.
What does it mean if your double marker test turns out to be positive? Here's a detailed guide on what the positive outcome of the double marker test is and what you should be doing and expecting.
Double marker test is the blood test that would be done during the first trimester scan. The two markers' level in the mother's blood are checked:
1. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A): Protein secreted from the placenta
2. Free beta human chorionic gonadotropin (beta hCG): Gonadotropin produced due to pregnancy.
This pregnancy marker test is done to assess the likelihood of a fetus having chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome or trisomy 21, Edwards syndrome or trisomy 18, and Patau syndrome or trisomy 13.
The results from this double marker test are usually combined with information obtained from the NT scan or nuchal translucency scan to establish a complete picture of risk
When it comes back positive, the determination will be that the fetus is moderately to highly at risk of having chromosomal abnormalities.
That is not to say that the baby is afflicted with some sort of genetic disorder. It just means the chance has gone up in comparison to that of the general population.
These are factors used for the computation of risk. These include:
• Mother's free beta hCG and blood PAPP-A levels
• Mother's age: This is significant because, to a large extent, the risk is influenced by the mother's age
• Result from the NT scan: This measures the collection of the fluid at the nape portion of the baby's back
The markers of importance to evaluate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities are levels of PAPP-A and free beta hCG:
• PAPP-A: Low levels increase the risk for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.
• Free beta hCG: Levels tend to be high in most cases with a chance for Down syndrome.
The results of tests are given as a ratio or risk factor. An example result might be a 1 in 200 risk for a chromosomal abnormality. The second number in the ratio-the lower it is, the higher the risk is perceived.
It is usually beyond the limits of the levels that would be expected for PAPP-A and free beta hCG during pregnancy. However, it should be said that this is a screening test, not a diagnostic test.
This is a double marker test very important in determining the susceptibility to chromosomal abnormalities in early stages of pregnancy.
It helps them, therefore, identify early when such a condition occurs and therefore think of other additional tests or ways through which medical care could be sought for them. Thus, it is highly advisable for:
Age over 35 years; this means that the chance of experiencing some chromosomal abnormalities increases
• Family history of genetic disease.
• When the NT scan or other markers indicate potential issues.
If your double marker test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely recommend further diagnostic tests to confirm the results. Some of the common follow-up tests include:
• Amniocentesis: It is a procedure where a small amount of amniotic fluid is extracted and analysed for genetic abnormalities.
• CVS: It is a test in which placental tissue is taken and observed for chromosomal abnormalities.
The tests are not as invasive as CVS. However, they provide accurate results.
The double marker test is a blood test which does not pose any physical risk to the mother or her baby. However, the emotional outcome may even be somewhat very stressful if positive. Discuss all implications of the test with your healthcare provider.
The NT scan takes place concurrently with the double marker test at early gestation. This scanning measures the fluid depth on the baby's backside nape. The abnormal test results that accompany the NT scan can increase the risk of events when one presents to be a double positive marker tests.
There are various factors which can influence outcomes obtained from the double marker test
• Maternal age: Advanced ages are at a greater risk of having a child born with genetic disorders.
• History of genetic diseases in the family.
• Multiple or twin births that may influence the levels of PAPP-A and free beta hCG levels.
The cost of the double marker test depends on the healthcare provider and region but in general ranges between $50 and $200.
Dual marker test and double marker test are synonyms. Both names refer to the title of a screening test that tests for the levels of two substances: PAPP-A and free beta hCG.
The first trimester screening is very important to identify pregnancies that are at moderate or high risk for genetic conditions. It then allows for early decision making and access to resources needed at the right time.
Normal value for a double marker test varies by gestational age but for most cases:
• PAPP-A: Low values indicate a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
• Free beta hCG: High levels increase the risk of Down syndrome.
A double marker test is just another term for a dual marker test. This test can be used to evaluate the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities. PAPP-A and free beta hCG are tests that are used for it.
This creates a double positive result from a double marker test that does indeed create emotional duress, although it remains an inconclusive diagnosis, and a positive one at this point actually serves to trigger further testing by diagnostic procedures such as amniocentesis or CVS for potential chromosomal abnormality.
A positive double marker test means that the risk for chromosomal abnormalities in the baby increases.
That can be very scary, but do not forget that it is a screening test and not a diagnosis. Other follow-up tests such as amniocentesis or CVS would clarify your baby's health condition more.
The double marker test is one of the critical components of first trimester screening, which can help parents and their healthcare providers make informed decisions during early pregnancy.
If your results indicate a moderate or high risk, consult your doctor to discuss the next steps and ensure the best care for you and your baby.
A positive double marker test shows that the baby is of a moderate to high risk for having chromosomal abnormalities in their body such as having Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome or Patau syndrome. This does not confirm genetic disorder in your baby, but further tests would be recommended through amniocentesis or CVS for confirmation purposes.
If your result is positive, discuss the findings with your health provider. They may suggest additional diagnostic tests, including amniocentesis or CVS to confirm or rule out chromosomal abnormalities. These tests more clearly determine the baby's genetic health.
No, a positive result does not necessarily mean the baby has a genetic disorder. The double marker test is a screening test meant to predict risk rather than give a diagnosis. A positive result brings on the need for further testing to either confirm or exclude a condition.
* 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).