Dual marker - First Trimester

Dual Marker Test - First Trimester is a screening test that is used in pregnancy to check the risk of certain chromosomal conditions and birth defects in the unborn child.  It does not require an invasive procedure. A small blood sample is collected and used to help prepare for the child's need for genetic testing, and can be used to help guide the decision to consider more invasive tests, if required, and in the planning stages.

Recommendations by doctors are that this test should be carried out at 11 weeks and 13 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy, because this is typically the ideal stage. Women who are older in age, have a previous family history of genetic diseases, abnormal ultrasound findings, or anyone who would like additional information regarding their child's health in the uterus.

A Dual-Marker test can help screen risk levels. Two markers are used in this test, Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A (PAPP-A) and Free Beta-Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (Free β-hCG). If these two proteins are present in low levels, the baby could be at an increased risk of developing chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18).

A high risk does not mean that the child will be born with these conditions, but doctors still recommend further diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds and non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT),  for a better understanding.  Early risk assessment helps to receive medical advice, and then medical tests and assistance with pregnancy management, leading to better maternal and foetal results. A Dual-Marker Test, performed during the first semester, helps assess the risk of chromosomal conditions in the child.