Quadruple marker test is basically a screening blood test that is used to screen pregnant women for potential congenital defects in foetus i.e., neural tube defects, Down syndrome and Trisomy 18 in the unborn child. This test can be performed any time between 14 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. A quadruple marker test screens genetic disorders and other congenital disabilities in the fetus. It is essential to understand that this is a screening test, and a positive (high-risk) result does not confirm a disability. This test is also advised if the pregnant women is diabetic or has a family history of congenital disabilities.

Quadruple marker test measures four markers (AFP, HCG, Estriol & Inhibin-A) in the maternal blood to rule out congenital anomaly like Down Syndrome.

Pregnant women who are 35 or above should have the quadruple marker test done. This is because they are at a higher risk of having a baby with certain congenital disabilities.

Here are some of the risk factors that could lead to a doctor recommending this test:

• Being 35 or older.

• Having a family history of congenital disabilities.

• Suffering from medical conditions that could increase the risk of congenital disabilities, such as diabetes or thyroid disease.

• Previous pregnancies affected by congenital disabilities.

• A positive result on a simple pregnancy screening test.

The Quadruple Marker test is a simple blood test with no need for fasting before the test. The blood sample can be taken by the phlebotomist at a pathology lab.