The double test in pregnancy is a non-invasive prenatal test that involves the evaluation of two hormones - PAPP-A and the free beta subunit of hCG. It allows you to find possible abnormalities in the child's development. Thanks to it, as many as 9 out of 10 fetuses with disorders are detected. How is the double test performed in pregnancy? When is it moved?

Double test in pregnancyisnon-invasive prenatal test , which involves the assessment of two hormones- PAPP-A (Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A) and free subunitbeta hCG . This test is recommended for women of all ages. They are performed between the 10th and 14th week of pregnancy in order to detect possible abnormalities in the child's development, especially genetic defects, e.g. Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, or Patau. Compared to other, non-invasive prenatal tests, the PAPP-A test shows the highest measurement accuracy. Thanks to it, as many as 9 out of 10 fetuses with disorders are detected.

Double test during pregnancy ( PAPP-A andbeta hCG) -mileage

Blood is taken from the vein in the elbow flexion for analysis. Then, the levels of PAPP-A (pregnancy plasma protein) and hCG free beta unit are tested in this sample. Then the results are analyzed by computer using a special program called the risk calculation module according to the FMF standards (The Fetal Medicine Foundation). The examination is supplemented with an ultrasound assessment of the fluid layer within the translucency of the fetal nape (subcutaneous tissue in the neck).

Double pregnancy test ( PAPP-A andbeta hCG) -results

A test is considered positive if the risk is greater than 1: 300 (out of 300 pregnant women who tested this result, 299 had a he althy fetus, while one had Down's syndrome). This means that a score of 1: 100 means a higher risk than 1: 400.

Double test in pregnancy ( PAPP-A andbeta hCG) -what can be detected?

If the test result is negative, no further testing is required. When there is a risk of having a baby with one of the syndromes, the doctor recommends an amniocentesis.

  • decreased level of PAPP-A protein and increased beta-HCG as well as neck translucency indicate Down syndrome
  • decreased PAPP-A and beta-HCG concentrations, and increasedneck translucency indicates the existence of Edwards' and Patau syndromes

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Pregnant examinations