Also referred to as a Multiple Markers Screen. A prenatal diagnostic screen for fetal abnormalities performed between the 16th and 18th week of pregnancy. The test measures the levels of three substances circulating in the mother's blood: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and unconjugated oestriol (uE3). Changes in the levels of these three substances are associated with the presence of Down syndrome or other fetal disorders.
blood test that indicates if there's an increased risk of a birth defect, or a condition like Down Syndrome, in the fetus. This test can also show twins.
A blood test given to a woman between weeks 15 and 18 of pregnancy to screen for an increased risk of the baby having a birth defect. High levels of AFP may be associated with a neural tube defect; low levels may be associated with Down syndrome. The test is used to decide whether more invasive testing, such as an amniocentesis, is needed.
A prenatal blood test performed between 16 and 18 weeks to check levels of three substances that help determine whether a fetus is at increased risk for chromosomal abnormalities or neural tube defects.