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Downs Screening
A non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) is a sensitive test to screen for Down syndrome and some other chromosomal disorders in the first trimester of pregnancy. Tests for pregnant women include the HCG pregnancy test, screening tests for Down's syndrome and neural tube deficits, and the ultrasound pregnancy scan.
Soft marker for down syndrome :
The risk for a baby to be affected by Down syndrome can be calculated based upon maternal age, nuchal translucency measurement and blood tests drawn from the mother at 10 to 13 weeks and again at 15 to 20 weeks into the pregnancy. Ultrasound can be very helpful in refining the risk calculations.
Biochemical markers for down syndrome :
First-trimester biochemical markers for Down syndrome. The value of maternal serum pregnancy-associated protein A (PAPP-A), free and total beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (fbetahCG, betahCG) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in screening for Down syndrome (DS) in early pregnancy has been assessed.
Double Marker :
The Double Marker Test looks for two markers namely Free Beta hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin) and PAPP – A (Pregnancy associated plasma protein A). Free Beta hCG is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It's high level is indicative to a higher risk of Trisomy 18 and Down's syndrome.
Triple Marker :
A triple marker screen test takes a sample of blood and detects the levels of AFP, HCG, and estriol in it. AFP: A protein produced by the fetus. High levels of this protein can indicate certain potential defects, such as neural tube defects or failure of the fetus's abdomen to close.