A peek into Sequential screening tests & why are they important!
As a first-time mom, you definitely have a lot of queries like how to take care of yourself, what to eat, what various tests mean, what is beta hCG, and what does various hCG levels mean, first trimester screening, PAPP-A tests and more.
One such important tests are the sequential screening tests. As the heading goes, it’s a combination of tests done in your first and second trimester to check for any anomalies in the fetus, that could result in genetic defects or abnormalities at birth.
This article will help you understand more about the sequential screening tests along with some FAQs.
What tests are included in sequential screening and their importance?
The sequential screening tests, consists primarily of the following 2 blood tests and an Ultrasound:
Included in First trimester screening – Blood test 1: This test is conducted between weeks 11 and 13 of your pregnancy. It’s a test which measures the levels of pregnancy associated plasma protein A in your blood also known as the PAPP-A. Lower than normal levels of PAPP-A observed your first trimester can be associated with the risk of neural tube defects – like spina bifida.
Included in Second trimester screening – Blood test 2: This blood tests are conducted between 15 and 18 weeks of your pregnancy. Sometimes performed as late as 21 weeks as well.
These blood tests help diagnose the following:
- Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) levels: It is a protein secreted by your baby’s liver that can be detected in your bloodstream.
Very low or high levels of AFP could be correlated to birth defects.
- Estriol (uE3) levels: Estriol hormone is detected in highest quantity in a pregnant woman’s blood.
If its levels are low, then the baby could be at an increased risk of being born with trisomy 18 or Down syndrome.
- Beta-hCG: This is secreted by the placenta into your body.
If the levels of hCG are lower in your second trimester are lower than normal then it indicates a higher risk of trisomy 18 and higher than normal levels indicate a risk of Down syndrome.
- Inhibin: Scientifically the exact role of this protein in pregnancy is yet to be understood. However, testing for this protein helps increase the accuracy of sequential screening.
Similar to hCG levels, higher levels of inhibin indicates a higher risk to Down syndrome, and lower than normal levels indicates risk of trisomy 18.
Ultrasound
Sequential screening includes the ultrasound done in your first trimester screening
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