First Trimester Quad (PLGF + Papp A + Free Beta Hcg +Afp+Nt)

Regular screening at various stages of pregnancy is highly essential. The first-trimester quad test falls under the category of prenatal testing. 

This test evaluates your baby’s risk of diseases like chromosome 18 or Down syndrome. 

First Trimester Quad Test

Apollo 24|7’s first-trimester quad test package contains three tests:

• Free Beta-HCG: This test determines crucial information about the foetus during pregnancy. Through this test, the doctor can find the age of the foetus and the risks of potential diseases. 
• Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein (Papp A): This test evaluates the possibility of chromosomal abnormalities in your body. Generally, Papp A testing is done between the 11th to 14th week of pregnancy. In this screening, the medical expert analyses the serum concentration of the Papp A protein.
• PLGF: Placental Growth Factor (PLGF) is a blood test that indicates the presence of pre-eclampsia—a pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure. Timely detection of this condition can be crucial for the mother and child.

This testing takes place in two forms — a blood draw and an ultrasound exam. In both cases, you won’t notice any severe pain. So, undergoing first-trimester screening is generally a painless procedure. 

Why Should You Get Tested?

First-trimester testing gauges the risk of you carrying a baby with trisomy 18 or Down syndrome. Both these conditions are challenging for the newborn baby.

An accurate first-trimester test can allow doctors to guide you during and after the pregnancy. You will receive in-depth information on the aspects related to both conditions. So, you can decide how to approach the next steps in your pregnancy and childbirth.

This screening is generally optional. Still, you can consider it to evaluate your baby’s risk of Down syndrome or chromosome 18. It is always beneficial to consult your doctor for the appropriate suggestion. 
 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Jasmin Rath, Obstetrics & Gynaecology from apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.

Frequently asked questions

What are the signs that a child has Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is a congenital disability characterized by physical characteristics like a flattened skull, large tongue, short stature and pronounced folds of skin in the inner corners of the eyes. In some individuals, it may also lead to limited intellectual ability and impact the child’s social and practical skills.

What is the purpose of the first-trimester quad test?

The first-trimester quad test is helpful in detecting the risk of a baby contracting Down Syndrome early so that it is manageable. Additionally, the test also provides crucial information about trisomy 18, a condition that may cause severe developmental delays in a child. The test is done for the reasons listed below: To detect and manage the risks of pregnancy earlier To chart the course of medical treatment if the test results are positive Medical management after delivery Allow time for decisions to conduct more diagnostic tests

In which week of the pregnancy is the first-trimester quad test done?

The first-trimester quad test is the earliest diagnostic test that can be performed during pregnancy to detect anomalies like Down Syndrome and trisomy 18 in the child. Based on the results, the doctors can devise a management plan. The test is usually done between weeks 15 and 20 of pregnancy for the most accurate results.

What causes trisomy 18?

Trisomy 18, commonly known as Edward’s Syndrome, is a congenital disability that occurs due to the presence of an extra chromosome in the body. Children with trisomy 18 often suffer from a slow growth rate before birth and low weight at birth. Additionally, they may have other physical deformities like an irregular-shaped head, a small jaw and mouth, and clenched fists with overlapping fingers. These defects may be life-threatening for the child, so it is vital to get a first-trimester quad test done to detect them early. Based on the results, it can be better managed, and the affected children can lead relatively healthy lives.