First Trimester Triple Marker Test
Short Name: FTM Triple Marker
Also known as: First Trimester Combined Screening Test, First Trimester Maternal Serum Screening, FTM Screening, First Trimester Aneuploidy Screening, Combined First Trimester Screening with Preeclampsia Risk
First Trimester Triple Marker Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,200. Uses ECLIA (Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay) on Serum samples. Results in Same day report delivery for samples received on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday by 9:00 AM. Reports available via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA
Consultant Medical Geneticist · Reg: 8532
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the First Trimester Triple Marker Test is to estimate the risk of the fetus having specific chromosomal abnormalities (Trisomy 13, 18, and 21) and to assess the mother's risk of developing pre-eclampsia. By measuring Free Beta hCG, PAPP-A, and PlGF levels in maternal serum and integrating them with ultrasound data (NT, CRL, Nasal Bone, Uterine Artery PI), the test generates a probabilistic risk score. This early screening empowers clinicians and families with actionable information during the first trimester, allowing timely planning for confirmatory diagnostics or monitoring protocols.
- Test Code
- 564
- CPT Code
- 84163
- ICD Code
- Z36.8
- Price
- ₹4,200
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Same day report delivery for samples received on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday by 9:00 AM. Reports available via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- ECLIA (Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay)
Sample Collection
No fasting is required. Ensure all required clinical information is provided on the Maternal Serum Screen Requisition Form (Form 11) and Preeclampsia Screening Form (Form 13). This includes maternal date of birth, height, weight, IVF status, smoking status, history of blood pressure, diabetes, pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy, and any history of trisomy birth. Blood pressure readings for both arms and a recent USG report (11–13 weeks) with CRL, NT, Nasal Bone, number of fetuses, and Uterine Artery PI must be available.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A standard venipuncture will be performed. Approximately 3 ml of blood will be drawn into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
Report Delivery
Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or gauze for 2–3 minutes. Avoid strenuous activity with the punctured arm for a few hours. The sample will be processed, and reports will be delivered on the same day if received on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday by 9:00 AM.
Timeline: Same day report delivery for samples received on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday by 9:00 AM. Reports available via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the First Trimester Triple Marker Test is to estimate the risk of the fetus having specific chromosomal abnormalities (Trisomy 13, 18, and 21) and to assess the mother's risk of developing pre-eclampsia. By measuring Free Beta hCG, PAPP-A, and PlGF levels in maternal serum and integrating them with ultrasound data (NT, CRL, Nasal Bone, Uterine Artery PI), the test generates a probabilistic risk score. This early screening empowers clinicians and families with actionable information during the first trimester, allowing timely planning for confirmatory diagnostics or monitoring protocols.
How to Prepare
- Provide 3 ml (minimum 1.5 ml) of serum from 1 SST tube
- Ship the sample refrigerated or frozen to maintain analyte integrity
- Sample stability at room temperature: Not recommended; Refrigerator (2–8°C): stable for 8 hours; Frozen (-20°C): stable for 12 weeks
- Complete the Maternal Serum Screen Requisition Form (Form 11) with maternal demographics, obstetric history, and clinical details
- Complete the Preeclampsia Screening Form (Form 13) with two blood pressure readings per arm, maternal history, and related clinical data
- Attach the USG report (performed between 11–13 weeks gestation) including CRL, NT, Nasal Bone, number of fetuses, and Uterine Artery PI
- Mention the gestational age accurately; test is valid only between 10–13 weeks of gestation
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532
"First trimester screening with biochemical markers (Free Beta hCG, PAPP-A, PlGF) combined with ultrasound measurements (NT, CRL, Nasal Bone) provides a highly sensitive assessment for chromosomal abnormalities and pre-eclampsia risk well before the second trimester. Early detection allows timely clinical decision-making and follow-up diagnostic testing when indicated."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample received outside the valid gestational window (before 10 weeks or after 13 weeks)
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1.5 ml)
- Hemolyzed, lipemic, or contaminated sample
- Incomplete or missing Maternal Serum Screen Form (Form 11) or Preeclampsia Screening Form (Form 13)
- Missing or inadequate ultrasound report (absent CRL, NT, or Nasal Bone data)
- Sample improperly stored or compromised during transit
Understanding Your Results
May indicate increased risk of Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). Also seen in molar pregnancies and some multiple gestations. Correlation with ultrasound findings is recommended.
May indicate increased risk of Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) or Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome). Further diagnostic evaluation recommended if other markers are also abnormal.
Associated with increased risk of Trisomy 21, Trisomy 18, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia, and preterm delivery.
Strongly associated with increased risk of early-onset and late-onset pre-eclampsia. Low PlGF is one of the most sensitive markers for placentation disorders in the first trimester.
Indicates higher than acceptable risk. Does not confirm diagnosis. Recommend genetic counseling and confirmatory testing such as Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) with karyotyping or chromosomal microarray.
Indicates lower probability of these aneuploidies. Standard prenatal care continues. False negatives can occur; routine follow-up ultrasound remains advisable.
Increased likelihood of developing pre-eclampsia. Low-dose aspirin prophylaxis (started before 16 weeks) may be recommended. Closer surveillance including serial BP monitoring and repeat biomarker assessment advised.
Consult your obstetrician or geneticist if your First Trimester Triple Marker Test results indicate a screen-positive risk for any chromosomal abnormality (Trisomy 13, 18, or 21) or pre-eclampsia. You should also seek medical advice if you experience symptoms such as severe headaches, visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain, sudden swelling of hands or face, elevated blood pressure, or any concerning signs during your pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will guide you regarding confirmatory diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis) and management plans.
Limitations
- ⚠This is a screening test and NOT a diagnostic test; it estimates risk but does not confirm or rule out chromosomal abnormalities
- ⚠Screen-negative results do not guarantee the absence of chromosomal abnormalities or pre-eclampsia
- ⚠The test has a detection rate of approximately 85–90% for Trisomy 21 when combined with NT ultrasound; false negatives can occur
- ⚠Not all chromosomal abnormalities or birth defects (e.g., single-gene disorders, structural anomalies) are detected
- ⚠May not be reliable in multiple pregnancies without appropriate adjustments
- ⚠Maternal conditions such as diabetes or use of certain medications may influence marker levels
- ⚠Risk assessment is dependent on the quality and completeness of ultrasound parameters provided
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk associated with blood collection: minor bruising, soreness, or very rare infection at the puncture site
- ●False-positive results may cause unnecessary anxiety and lead to invasive diagnostic procedures
- ●False-negative results may provide false reassurance; a normal result does not entirely exclude abnormalities
- ●Emotional impact of screening results; genetic counseling is recommended before and after testing
Interfering Factors
- ●Incorrect gestational age estimation may affect marker levels and risk calculation accuracy
- ●Maternal weight extremes: MoM adjustments are applied, but very high or low BMI can influence results
- ●IVF pregnancies may require adjusted marker medians for accurate interpretation
- ●Multiple gestation (twins or higher-order multiples) alters biochemical marker levels
- ●Maternal smoking status affects PAPP-A and PlGF levels and must be documented
- ●Incorrect collection, storage, or shipping of the blood sample may compromise analyte stability
- ●Insufficient or incomplete clinical data (missing BP readings, USG details) may affect risk algorithm accuracy
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | First Trimester Triple Marker Test | Double Marker Test | First Trimester Combined Screening (with NT) | NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) | Second Trimester Triple Marker / Quadruple Marker | Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | First Trimester Triple Marker Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the First Trimester Triple Marker Test?
When should I take the First Trimester Triple Marker Test?
Is fasting required for the First Trimester Triple Marker Test?
What is the cost of the First Trimester Triple Marker Test at DNA Labs India?
How accurate is the First Trimester Triple Marker Test?
What do the results of the First Trimester Triple Marker Test mean?
What happens if my test result is screen-positive?
Can the First Trimester Triple Marker Test detect all birth defects?
What is the difference between the Double Marker and Triple Marker Test in the first trimester?
Is the First Trimester Triple Marker Test safe during pregnancy?
Can I take this test if I am carrying twins?
Does DNA Labs India offer home sample collection for this test?
Related Tests
Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.