First-trimester Test-V, Serum Quad Test (Free Beta HCG, PAPP-A, AFP, PLGF)

The First Trimester Test (also known as the Serum Quad Test) is a prenatal screening test that measures the levels of four specific substances in a pregnant woman's blood during the first trimester of pregnancy. These substances are:

1. Free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (free beta-hCG)
2. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A)
3. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
4. PLGF

Here are some reasons why the First Trimester Test is done:

1. The Quad Test is done during the first trimester of pregnancy and is used to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13).
2. It can also help to identify the risk of neural tube defects.
3. Early detection of chromosomal abnormalities can help parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy and plan for any necessary medical interventions.

The First Trimester Test is typically recommended for pregnant women who are at increased risk of having a baby with chromosomal abnormalities, such as women who are over 35 years of age, have a family history of genetic disorders, or have previously had a child with a chromosomal abnormality.

Some other common reasons a doctor might recommend a first-trimester test include:

• Abnormal ultrasound: If there are any concerns or abnormalities detected during an ultrasound, your doctor may recommend the test.
• IVF: If you became pregnant through IVF, your doctor may recommend the test.

If the results of the First trimester test-V (also known as the serum quad test) are abnormal, it may indicate a higher risk for certain chromosomal abnormalities or birth defects in the developing fetus. An abnormal result may indicate a higher risk of conditions such as Down syndrome, trisomy 18, or neural tube defects. In the case of an abnormal result, the doctor may recommend invasive tests, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, which can provide a more definitive diagnosis.

The test involves drawing a small amount of blood from a vein in the mothers arm. A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, wrap an elastic band around your upper arm to make the veins more visible, and insert a needle into a vein to collect the blood sample. You may feel a brief prick or stinging sensation when the needle is inserted, but the procedure is generally painless.

No special preparation is required for the test. However, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking the test, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations based on your individual medical history and current health status.

There are several laboratory tests that may be ordered in addition to the First Trimester Test-V, which includes the Serum Quad Test (Free beta hCG, PAPP-A, AFP, and PLGF)

1. Nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound: This test measures the thickness of fluid behind the baby's neck to assess the risk of Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities.
2. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening: This is a blood test that analyzes fetal DNA in the mother's blood to detect chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome.
3. Second trimester maternal serum screening: This includes tests for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estriol, and inhibin A. This test can detect certain birth defects and chromosomal abnormalities.
4. Glucose screening: This test screens for gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy.
5. Group B strep (GBS) screening: This test checks for a type of bacteria that can be harmful to newborns if passed from mother to baby during delivery.
6. Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the number and types of cells in your blood and can detect anemia or other blood disorders that could affect pregnancy.

• Quadruple test
• Quad screen
• First Trimester Maternal Screen