During pregnancy, expectant mothers may worry if their baby is at risk of developing a physical health condition or a birth defect. The quad screen or the quadruple test is an important prenatal test that helps evaluate if there is a good chance of a baby having certain conditions such as Down’s syndrome, trisomy 18 (Edward’s syndrome), neural tube defects and abdominal wall defects. Depending on the test results, you may need to undergo further tests for thorough evaluation.
This test is performed during the second trimester (15–20 weeks) of pregnancy. It looks at the levels of the following substances in the mother’s body:
Unconjugated estriol (uE3): uE3 is a type of estrogen that the fetus produces through metabolism. The levels of unconjugated estriol help evaluate congenital abnormalities, erratic chromosomal behavior and assess the baby’s well-being.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): During pregnancy, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that a developing baby makes. Some AFP passes from the baby into the pregnant person’s blood; however, some conditions can make a baby’s body release more or less AFP. It helps detect genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome or Turner syndrome, and multiples, such as twins or triplets.
Inhibin-A: Inhibin A is a protein that is mainly secreted by the placenta and found in the syncytiotrophoblast. It helps find out if the unborn baby is at risk of certain birth defects, such as Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, spina bifida, and abdominal wall defects.
Beta Human chorionic gonadotropin (Total): It is a hormone made by the placenta during pregnancy. The levels of hCG may provide information regarding the health of the baby. The hCG is highest towards the end of the first trimester and then declines afterward.
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How is it performed?
A phlebotomist, a specialist trained in drawing blood, usually performs this test. It is a screening test that only tells whether a mother is at risk of carrying a baby with a genetic disorder. However, abnormal results require additional testing. Before taking this test, the doctor may look for the patient’s medical history and perform vital health checks. To take out the blood, a band is lightly tied around the arm and the vein is located for taking out the blood. After the area is cleaned off, a needle is inserted into the vein, and a sample is taken out for testing.
Why is this test done?
The test looks at major markers that are indicative of birth defects in the foetus, including:
- Down’s syndrome (Trisomy 21): It is a genetic disorder and causes many developmental delays, changes in facial features, lifelong intellectual disabilities, and health problems. A baby with Down’s syndrome also may have problems with vision and hearing, as well as heart defects.
- Edward’s syndrome (Trisomy 18): It is a rare chromosomal disorder that happens when a baby has three copies of chromosome 18 instead of 2. This affects the way the baby develops. Those born with Edwards syndrome are often born small and have abnormal features, including a small head, jaw, and mouth, clenched fists, and heart defects.
- Spina bifida: It is a birth defect that happens when the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly. It’s a type of neural tube defect.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and interpretation of test results.
