Pregnancy is a delicate and transformative phase in a woman’s life. To ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby, several screening tests are recommended throughout pregnancy. One of the most important among these is the Double Marker Test.
This test plays a critical role in the early detection of chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. It helps in identifying potential genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, and Trisomy 13, which can significantly affect the quality of life of the baby.
What is a Double Marker Test?
The Double Marker Test, also known as the Dual Marker Test, is a non-invasive prenatal screening test performed in the first trimester of pregnancy. It is a blood test that measures the levels of two key biochemical markers:
Free Beta-hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A)
These markers are analyzed alongside ultrasound measurements (especially nuchal translucency) to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
Why is the Double Marker Test Important?
The Double Marker Test is not a diagnostic test but a risk-assessment tool. It helps expecting parents and doctors:
Detect early signs of Down syndrome and other chromosomal disorders
Decide whether further testing, such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) or Amniocentesis, is necessary
Make informed decisions regarding pregnancy management
This test is especially recommended for:
Women aged 35 or above
Pregnancies with a family history of genetic disorders
Women with a history of miscarriages or birth defects
Those who have had abnormal ultrasound findings in the first trimester
When is the Double Marker Test Done?
The ideal time to take the Double Marker Test is between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy, usually after a first-trimester ultrasound scan (NT scan). Performing the test within this window ensures optimal accuracy and timely follow-up if further testing is required.
How is the Double Marker Test Performed?
The process is simple and non-invasive:
A blood sample is drawn from the pregnant woman’s arm.
The blood is tested for the levels of Free Beta-hCG and PAPP-A.
The results are then combined with the nuchal translucency (NT) measurement from the first-trimester ultrasound.
A risk calculation is made using specialized software, which takes into account the mother’s age, weight, gestational age, and other factors.
Understanding Double Marker Test Results
The results are usually presented as a ratio or risk score, indicating the probability of the fetus having a chromosomal condition.
1. Low Risk
Indicates that the baby is unlikely to have chromosomal abnormalities.
No further testing is typically required.
2. High Risk
Suggests a higher-than-normal probability of a chromosomal disorder.
Not a confirmation—further testing like NIPT, CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling), or amniocentesis is advised for a definitive diagnosis.
Normal Ranges:
Free Beta-hCG and PAPP-A levels vary, and there are no fixed “normal values.”
Instead, results are interpreted as MoM (Multiples of the Median).
A MoM around 1 is considered average; significantly higher or lower values may be associated with increased risk.
Double Marker Test vs. Triple Marker and Quadruple Marker Tests
The Double Marker Test is conducted in the first trimester, while the Triple and Quad Marker Tests are done in the second trimester.
If the Double Marker test is not performed, the Quadruple Marker Test is often recommended later (between 15–20 weeks).
Many gynecologists prefer Double Marker + NT scan due to its early detection advantage.
Accuracy of the Double Marker Test
The test is considered highly reliable for risk assessment but not foolproof. It has a sensitivity rate of around 85–90%, especially when combined with NT scan findings. However, false positives and false negatives can occur, which is why confirmatory diagnostic tests are suggested for high-risk results.
Risks Involved
There are no physical risks to the mother or fetus.
Since it is a blood test, it is completely safe and painless (other than minor discomfort during blood collection).
Cost of Double Marker Test in India
The Double Marker Test price varies depending on the diagnostic center and city. In general, the cost ranges from:
₹2,000 to ₹4,500
Factors influencing price:
City or location (e.g., higher in metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore)
Laboratory standards (NABL, ISO certifications)
Whether booked as part of a package with NT scan
Popular diagnostic chains like Thyrocare, Metropolis, Apollo Diagnostics, Redcliffe Labs, Dr. Lal PathLabs, and SRL Diagnostics offer this test across India with home sample collection and online report access.
How to Prepare for the Test
No fasting is required.
Continue taking prenatal vitamins or medications unless advised otherwise.
Share your accurate last menstrual period (LMP) and ultrasound data with the lab for precise risk calculation.
How to Book a Double Marker Test
Booking is simple and convenient:
Visit the official website of a trusted diagnostic provider.
Select the Double Marker Test option.
Choose home sample collection or nearest lab visit.
Pick a date and time.
Submit your details and get tested.
Reports are usually available within 2 to 4 working days.
Final Words
The Double Marker Test is an essential first-trimester screening tool that provides critical insights into your baby’s health and development. While it doesn’t give a definite diagnosis, it helps doctors make informed decisions regarding further testing. It’s completely safe, non-invasive, and provides early peace of mind during pregnancy.
If you are in your 11th to 13th week of pregnancy, speak to your gynecologist about the Double Marker Test and ensure timely screening. Early action leads to better pregnancy outcomes.
