Dual Marker Test Report – Complete Guide for Expecting Parents

Dual Marker Test Report – Complete Guide for Expecting Parents

Maternal screening during pregnancy plays a vital role in detecting the risk of genetic disorders early. Among the most commonly used prenatal screening tests are the Dual Marker Test (also called Double Marker Test) and the Quadruple Marker Test.

Many parents and even clinicians often find it challenging to interpret a Dual Marker Report. At LABASSURE, we aim to simplify this for you. This guide explains the purpose of the test, how it works, and how to understand your report. Remember, the report should always be interpreted by a qualified doctor or fetal medicine specialist.

What is the Dual Marker (Double Marker) Test?

The Dual Marker Test is part of Maternal Serum Screening (also called Biochemical Screening). It is performed during the first trimester of pregnancy (11–14 weeks) to screen for:

• Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)

• Trisomy 18 and other common chromosomal abnormalities

This test is not diagnostic but helps estimate the risk probability of genetic disorders in the fetus.

What is Biochemical Screening?

Biochemical screening involves measuring the levels of specific proteins and hormones in the mother’s blood. In the Dual Marker Test, two key parameters are evaluated:

• Free Beta hCG (Free ß-hCG)

• PAPP-A (Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein A)

These values are compared against reference ranges, considering factors such as:

• Maternal age

• Weight

• Ethnicity

• Gestational age

This comparison generates a risk score, helping doctors assess whether further diagnostic tests (like NIPT or amniocentesis) are required.

Dual, Triple & Quadruple Marker Tests – What’s the Difference?

• Dual Marker Test: Done between 11–14 weeks (first trimester)

• Triple Marker Test: Done between 15–20 weeks

• Quadruple Marker Test: Done between 15–20 weeks

Each test evaluates different biochemical parameters. If you miss the Dual Marker window, your doctor may recommend a Triple or Quadruple Marker Test in the second trimester.

Accuracy and Technology Used at LABASSURE

At LABASSURE, we use the Cobas e411 system by Roche Diagnostics – a platform trusted globally for its accuracy and approved by the Fetal Medicine Foundation (UK).

This ensures:

• Reliable biochemical measurements

• Higher accuracy in risk estimation

• Confidence for clinicians and patients

Biochemical Screening with Ultrasound (NT Scan)

The accuracy of the Dual Marker Test improves significantly when combined with:

• CRL (Crown-Rump Length)

• NT (Nuchal Translucency)

These ultrasound measurements are taken during a first-trimester ultrasound scan. When combined with biochemical results, the screening accuracy increases, offering a clearer risk assessment.

How to Understand a Dual Marker Report

Many patients and even referring doctors may have questions about interpreting the screening report. Key points include:

• The test does not confirm or rule out a disorder

• It only provides a risk estimate (low risk or high risk)

• High risk results usually lead to further diagnostic tests

• Always discuss results with a fetal medicine expert or gynecologist

Why Maternal Screening is Important

Maternal screening helps:

• Detect genetic abnormalities early

• Provide reassurance to expecting parents

• Enable doctors to plan pregnancy care and delivery better

• Guide decisions about further testing or treatment

Choosing an experienced clinician, skilled ultrasound specialist, and a reliable laboratory partner is essential for accurate results.

Key Takeaways

• The Dual Marker Test is an important first-trimester screening for genetic disorders.

• It uses Free ß-hCG and PAPP-A levels, often combined with an NT scan for accuracy.

• It provides a risk probability—not a diagnosis.

• LABASSURE uses advanced Roche technology to ensure accurate, reliable results.

• Always interpret results with your doctor or fetal medicine expert.

📧 For more details or queries, write to us at info@labassure.com

References:

1. Fetal Medicine Foundation, London – fetalmedicine.org

2. Roche Diagnostics – Elecsys PAPP-A & Free ß-hCG

3. Roche Multicenter Evaluation Study, 2009

4. SSDWLab Software – sbpsoftware.com

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