Quadra Marker With Graph

The quadra marker test (quad screen) is a second‑trimester maternal blood screening measuring four substances—AFP, hCG, unconjugated estriol and inhibin A—to estimate risk of chromosomal conditions (Down and Edwards syndromes) and neural tube defects. Performed around 15–20 weeks, it’s a screening, not diagnostic. Abnormal results prompt further ultrasound evaluation and diagnostic testing such as amniocentesis.

A second‑trimester quadruple marker (quad) screen, done around 15–20 weeks, measures AFP, hCG, unconjugated estriol and inhibin A. Results are reported as multiples of the median (MoM) and plotted on a risk graph against age‑based baseline risk to estimate likelihood of Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and neural‑tube defects. Abnormal risk leads to genetic counseling and diagnostic testing (e.g., amniocentesis).

Costs vary widely by country and provider. In publicly funded systems it’s usually free. In private labs it commonly ranges from about $50–$400 USD (higher in some clinics) or roughly ₹700–₹3,000 INR. Final price depends on location, healthcare setting, and whether it’s bundled with other prenatal tests; check with your local lab or clinic for exact fees.

A quadruple marker report lists AFP, hCG, unconjugated estriol and inhibin A, usually reported as multiples of the median (MoM) for gestational age. Abnormal patterns (e.g., high AFP or low AFP/hCG/estriol combinations) change estimated risks for neural tube defects or aneuploidies, but are screening, not diagnostic. Interpretation adjusts for maternal age, weight, diabetes and multiple pregnancy; abnormal results prompt ultrasound and diagnostic testing.

NIPT analyzes fetal cell‑free DNA from maternal blood from about ten weeks, giving higher sensitivity and specificity for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 (and can screen sex chromosomes); positives require diagnostic confirmation. The quad screen measures four maternal serum markers at about 15–20 weeks to estimate risk for trisomies and neural tube defects; it’s less accurate but more widely available and cheaper.

Most quadruplet pregnancies result from fertility treatments: ovulation‑stimulating medications and assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF—especially when multiple embryos are transferred. Spontaneous quadruplets are very rare, typically arising from multiple eggs being fertilized or from embryo splitting. Use of fertility treatment has substantially increased the occurrence of higher‑order multiple pregnancies compared with natural conception.