Triple Screening Test (Triple Marker) in Ankara

The Triple Screening Test is a prenatal test performed to investigate congenital anomalies such as chromosomal abnormalities and Neural Tube Defects (NTD) in the baby.

• What is NTD? Neural tube defect refers to spinal cord anomalies related to the baby’s nervous system, such as spina bifida (opening in the back) or brain development issues (anencephaly).

The Triple Screening Test is a screening test, not a definitive diagnostic test. It provides a probability score regarding the health of the fetus.

When is the Triple Screening Test Performed?

The Triple Screening Test is ideally performed between the 16th and 18th weeks of pregnancy. Although it can be done until the 20th week, it is most accurate in the 16-18 week range.

Procedure Steps:

1. Ultrasound Measurement: First, the baby’s measurements are strictly taken with ultrasonography. The Head Diameter (BPD) is measured and recorded on a special form.

2. Data Collection: Crucial information must be entered into the system: Mother’s date of birth, Last Menstrual Period (LMP), weight, smoking habits, history of previous babies with chromosomal anomalies, consanguineous marriage (relative marriage), gestational week according to USG, and whether there is diabetes.

3. Blood Test: Blood is taken from the mother on the same day as the ultrasound measurement.

What is Measured in the Triple Test?

In the blood sample taken from the expectant mother, three substances are analyzed:

1. AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein): A protein produced by the fetus’s liver.

2. hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): A hormone produced by the placenta.

3. uE3 (Unconjugated Estriol): A form of estrogen produced by the placenta and the fetus.

The values of these hormones vary according to the gestational week. All information is processed in a computer environment to determine the risk level.

Why is the Triple Screening Test Done?

It is performed to investigate the presence of three specific conditions:

• Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome): The most common chromosomal anomaly.

• Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome): A severe condition where 90% of babies do not survive to birth.

• Neural Tube Defects (NTD): Open spine or skull defects.

This test allows for the pre-detection of anomalies in the fetus and the diagnosis of pregnancy losses that occur without symptoms.

Interpreting the Results

Normal vs. Abnormal Levels: In cases of anomaly, these values deviate from the norm:

• Neural Tube Defects: In babies with NTD, the AFP value is typically higher than normal (more than 2 times).

• Down Syndrome: Typically associated with Low AFP, Low uE3, and High hCG.

Risk Calculation: The test results present a probability, not a definite “Yes” or “No”.

• For Trisomy 21, a value greater than 1/250 is considered “High Risk”.

• For Trisomy 18, a value less than 1/10,000 is generally the cutoff.

What if the result is High Risk? Since this is a screening test, a high-risk result does not mean the baby definitely has a problem. It means further testing is needed. If risk appears in the Triple Test, diagnostic procedures such as Amniocentesis or advanced screening like NIPT (Fetal DNA) should be performed.

Is the Triple Test Mandatory?

The Triple Screening Test and other screening tests are procedures that the Ministry of Health requires physicians to inform their pregnant patients about. However, performing the test depends on the patient’s choice.

A pregnant woman who does not want to have the Triple Screening Test should state her opinion to her physician and declare in writing that she has been informed but declines the test.

Who is at Higher Risk for Anomalies?

The risk of giving birth to a baby with anomalies is higher in the following groups:

• Those with a family history of birth defects.

• Pregnant women over the age of 35.

• Those who use harmful drugs or are exposed to high radiation during pregnancy.

• Those with Diabetes.

• Consanguineous marriages.

• Those with genetic diseases in themselves or their spouses.

• Those with a previous history of a baby with Down Syndrome or multiple miscarriages.

Triple Screening Test Prices in Ankara

The price of the test depends on the laboratory fees and the ultrasound examination fee. Please contact our clinic for current pricing and appointment availability.