Non-invasive blood screening process is simple and involves an ultrasound scan to measure the placental blood flow at 11-13+6 weeks gestation in combination with maternal history, mean arterial blood pressure, serum AFP, Beta-hCG, PAPP-A maternal blood marker and placental growth factor (PLGF)
AFP is a protein which is produced by the fetus. If the levels of AFP are high, it indicates neural tube defects in the fetus or there can be incomplete closure of the fetus abdomen.
Increased Beta-hCG levels are associated with an increased risk for Down Syndrome
PAPP-A: Decreased levels of PAPP-A can be seen in pregnancies affected with Down syndrome in the first trimester of the pregnancy.
Placental growth factor (PLGF) is an important molecule in the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia. It has pro-angiogenic effects on the feto-placental circulation and supports trophoblast growth.
The NT (Nuchal Translucency), an ultrasound marker is important component for combined trisomy 21 risk assessment
Provides comprehensive reporting with graphs for better understanding
Specimen
Fasting not mandatory. 3 ml. (2 ml. Minimum) Serum from 1 SST (Gel Barrier Tube)
Reported on
7 working days
Precaution
Test Preparation
Test is valid between 11-13+6 weeks of gestation.
Hard copy of your latest pregnancy ultrasound report (CRL, NT/NB or Level 1),
Both Right & Left Blood pressure
Both Right & Left Uterine artery Pulsatile Index ((For Pre-eclampsia screening only)
Maternal Screen details (LMP, DOB, Body Weight, Diabetic status & IVF) ready at the time of your test.
Special Instructions for Sample Collection:
Brief clinical history mandatory. Please keep the hard copy of your latest pregnancy ultrasound report (CRL, NT/NB or Level 1), blood pressure and Maternal Screen details (LMP, DOB, Body Weight, Diabetic status & IVF) ready at the time of your test.
Be sure to talk to your health care provider if you have questions about your test results and/or your allergy treatment plan.
