The Triple marker test, also known as the multiple marker screening tests, is a blood test that screens for the risk of certain foetal abnormalities in pregnant mothers. The test measures the levels of three substances in the mother's blood: human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and estriol. These substances are produced by the foetus and pass through the placenta into the mother's bloodstream. Abnormal levels of these substances can indicate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, neural tube defects, and other congenital disabilities in the developing foetus. The test is typically performed between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy and is non-invasive, meaning it does not pose a risk to the mother or foetus.

What is a Triple Marker Test?

The Triple marker test, also known as the multiple marker screening tests, is a blood test that screens for the risk of certain foetal abnormalities in pregnant mothers. The test measures the levels of three substances in the mother's blood: human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and estriol. These substances are produced by the foetus and pass through the placenta into the mother's bloodstream. Abnormal levels of these substances can indicate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, neural tube defects, and other congenital disabilities in the developing foetus. The test is typically performed between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy and is non-invasive, meaning it does not pose a risk to the mother or foetus.

What is the Purpose of a Triple Marker Test? 

The purpose of a Triple marker test is to assess the risk of certain genetic disorders or birth defects in the developing foetus. The test provides a risk assessment based on the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), and estriol in the mother's blood. The results can help healthcare providers and parents make informed decisions about the need for further testing, monitoring, or interventions during pregnancy. Overall, the purpose of the Triple marker test is to provide valuable information about the health of the developing foetus and to offer the best possible outcomes for the mother and baby.

What Does a Triple Marker Test Diagnose? 

The test can diagnose or indicate the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida or anencephaly, down syndrome, and other foetal chromosomal abnormalities. However, it's important to note that the Triple marker test is not a diagnostic test but rather a screening test that provides a risk assessment based on the levels of these substances in the mother's blood. If the test results indicate a higher risk of a genetic disorder or birth defect, further testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, may be recommended for a definitive diagnosis.

Why Do You Need a Triple Marker Test?

Here are some reasons why your healthcare provider may recommend a Triple Marker Test: 

• Maternal age: Women who are over the age of 35 are at an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, and a Triple Marker Test can help assess this risk.
• Family history: If there is a family history of genetic disorders, neural tube defects, or other birth defects, a Triple Marker Test may be recommended.
• Abnormal ultrasound findings: If an ultrasound during pregnancy shows abnormalities in the foetus, a Triple Marker Test may be recommended to further evaluate the risk of genetic disorders.
• Previous pregnancy complications: Women who had previous pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities or birth defects may be recommended to have a Triple Marker Test. 

A Triple Marker Test can provide valuable information to the healthcare provider about the foetus’s health and allow them to make informed decisions about the management of the pregnancy.

Preparation & Procedure Required for a Triple Marker Test 

The test can be performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, so it is important to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider during this period. 

There is no special preparation required for the test, but it is recommended to wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing. 

Procedure: 

• Consultation: The healthcare provider will explain the test and its purpose, discuss the risks and benefits, and answer any questions the mother may have.
• Blood sample collection: A blood sample will be collected from the mother's arm. The procedure is like any other blood test, and only a small amount of blood is needed.
• Laboratory analysis: The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. The technician will measure the levels of three substances in the mother's blood: human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and estriol.
• Interpretation of results: The results of the Triple Marker Test will be interpreted based on the levels of these substances in the mother's blood. The healthcare provider will explain the results, their implications, and any further diagnostic testing that may be necessary. 

After the Triple Marker Test, most people do not experience any significant side effects or complications. Some people may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the site where the blood was drawn, but this usually resolves quickly. 

It is important to note that while the Triple Marker Test is a non-invasive and low-risk procedure, it can cause anxiety or stress in some people. Waiting for the test results can also cause stress or worry. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns you may have and to seek emotional support if needed. 

If the Triple Marker Test results suggest a higher risk of certain conditions, such as Down syndrome or neural tube defects, additional testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and to provide more information about the condition.

Understanding Triple Marker Test Results 

Here is how to understand Triple Marker Test results: 

• Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): The expected range for AFP varies depending on the foetus’s gestational age. AFP levels rise until about week 32 of pregnancy and then begin to decline. The normal range for AFP is typically between 1.38 to 187.00 IU/ml.
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG): The expected range for HCG also varies depending on the gestational age of the foetus. HCG levels peak around week 10 of pregnancy and then decline. The normal range for HCG is typically between 1.06 to 315 ng/ml.
• Estriol: The expected range for estriol also varies depending on the gestational age of the foetus. Estriol levels rise throughout pregnancy and peak at around week 34. The normal range for estriol is typically between 0.25 to 28.5 nmol/l. 

Normal results: 

Normal results indicate that the levels of AFP, HCG, and estriol are within the expected range for the foetus’s gestational age. Normal results suggest the foetus is at minimal risk for certain genetic disorders and congenital disabilities. 

Abnormal results: 

Abnormal results indicate that the levels of one or more substances are outside the expected range for the foetus’s gestational age. Abnormal results do not necessarily mean that the foetus has a genetic disorder, but they indicate that further diagnostic testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.