Quadruple Marker — Second Trimester (14–22 Weeks) Test in Guwahati
The Quadruple Marker test (also called the Quad Test or Quad Screen) is an enhanced second-trimester maternal serum screening performed between 14 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. It measures four important biomarkers — AFP, hCG, unconjugated estriol (uE3), and Inhibin-A — to estimate the risk of certain birth defects and chromosomal conditions, including Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edward syndrome (Trisomy 18), and open neural tube defects.
Aarogyam Center Guwahati offers easy home sample collection, fast reporting through Thyrocare laboratories, and complete support for interpreting screening results. Quadruple Marker testing is widely recommended when a mother misses first-trimester screening or when enhanced accuracy is needed before considering NIPT or diagnostic procedures.
- AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein): Elevated in open neural tube defects; low in some chromosomal abnormalities.
- hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): Abnormal levels indicate chromosomal risk.
- uE3 (Unconjugated Estriol): Low levels may be associated with Trisomy 18 and other fetal conditions.
- Inhibin-A: An additional placenta-derived hormone that improves accuracy in detecting Down syndrome.
These four markers, combined with maternal age, weight, gestational age, and other factors, help create a personalised risk assessment. It is a screening test, not a diagnostic test, but it significantly enhances early detection.
- Pregnant women between 14–22 weeks (ideal: 15–18 weeks)
- Those who missed first-trimester screening
- Women above age 30–35
- Patients advised by their gynecologist due to ultrasound findings
- Women with a family history or increased genetic risk
- Mothers needing improved accuracy over the Triple Marker
- Better sensitivity and specificity compared to Triple Marker
- Non-invasive, safe maternal blood test
- Can detect neural tube defects more reliably
- Helps guide next steps (NIPT, anomaly scan, or amniocentesis)
- Reduces anxiety by offering clear risk estimation
- No fasting is required; you may eat and drink normally.
- Ensure accurate gestational age — ultrasound dating is most reliable.
- Provide your DOB, height, weight, and pregnancy history during booking.
- If you have diabetes, twin pregnancy, IVF pregnancy, or prior complications — inform the team; these affect interpretation.
- Relax and avoid stress before the test; it does not affect markers but ensures comfortable collection.
- Sample: Maternal venous blood
- Report Time: 24–48 hours (risk calculation included)
- Risk interpretation provided: MoM values and estimated probability
Quadruple Marker results are reported as:
- MoM (Multiples of Median) for AFP, hCG, uE3, Inhibin-A
- Estimated risk ratios (e.g., 1 in 1200)
- Classification: low-risk or high-risk
A high-risk result does not mean the baby has a disorder — it only indicates the need for further evaluation, such as targeted anomaly scan, NIPT, or amniocentesis. A low-risk result does not guarantee absence of all conditions but offers strong reassurance.
Aarogyam Center provides full home collection coverage across Guwahati, including Beltola, Ganeshguri, Bhangagarh, Dispur, Jalukbari, Maligaon, Chandmari, Zoo Road, VIP Road, and surrounding areas. Expectant mothers prefer the Quad test due to comfort, accuracy, and compatibility with standard obstetric care guidelines in city hospitals.
Our Quadruple Marker reports are accepted at Apollo Clinic, Nemcare, GNRC, Hayat, Excelcare and all major gynecology practices across Guwahati.
- Always share your ultrasound gestational age for correct calculations.
- In twin pregnancies, Quad test interpretation differs — discuss with your doctor.
- Do not wait for the last day of the 22-week window; earlier is better for counselling & follow-up.
- If your earlier scans showed anomalies, NIPT may be recommended over Quad.
