Triple Marker Test: Get Cost, Values & Timing [2025]
A triple marker test is a maternal screening test. It is often recommended during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Triple marker test is a blood test which is helpful in detecting fetal abnormalities. It is essential to identify women with higher risks of congenital abnormalities. Other names for triple marker test are triple screen test, triple test or triple marker.
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What is triple marker test
It is a screening test which is performed on a blood sample from a pregnant woman. A triple marker test evaluates the following three components of the blood:
- Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP): AFP is a protein which is produced in the liver of a developing fetus. Some of it passes through the placenta to the mother’s blood. High level of this protein can be indicative of potential birth defects.
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG): HCG is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy. In combination with other two tests, it is helpful in detecting chromosomal abnormalities.
- Estriol: It measures the estrogen level which is produced by fetus and placenta. Low estriol level in combination with other two test results could determine the abnormal pregnancy risk.
Why is it done?
Triple marker test is done to find out the potential genetic abnormalities in the fetus. This test helps in Prenatal Screening of Edward’s Syndrome (Trisomy 18), Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Open Neural Tube Defects. A Negative result from triple marker test helps determine the risk category of the expecting mother. It also enables the couple to take an informed decision about the pregnancy. It is even more useful for people with family history of the genetic disorder.
How Triple Test is done and Precautions required?
A triple marker test is a simple blood test. The phlebotomist takes the blood sample from the veins of the mother. Then this sample is tested for the three parameters listed above.
Though the test usually does not require any special preparation or precautions, it is advisable to inform about any allergies to the technician.
Triple Maker Test Timing
Triple Marker test is done during the second trimester of pregnancy. The results are valid between the 14-22nd week of pregnancy. But it is preferable to do this test between the 15-20th week of pregnancy.
Triple Marker Test Results & interpretation
The results of this tests are evaluated on the statistical basis. In addition to the test results, it is often necessary to provide the last mensural period (LMP) date, ultrasound report, body weight, number of fetuses (single or twin), smoking and previous history of children with any genetic disorder.
Results can be plotted to generate a statistical risk measure of a pregnancy being affected by Down syndrome. The risk is then classified as HIGH risk and LOW risk. High-risk pregnancies may be advised for diagnostic tests such as chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis.
Triple marker test Normal Values & Accuracy
You must consult your gynecologist with the test reports to interpret the result. If the analysis shows that you are at high risk, consult your doctor to take an informed decision.
Results of triple tests are evaluated on the basis of values of AFP, HCG, and Estriol. Results from these three tests are then compared with a standardized data. The standardized data includes a number of factors such as region, culture, ethnicity & factors related to pregnancy.
Then a ratio is calculated to determine the chances of current pregnancy having that genetic abnormality. The cut-off ratios for genetic abnormalities are:
Table Containing Normal Values of Triple Marker Test
| Disorder | Cut-Off | Detection Rate in % | False Positive Rate in % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trisomy 21 (Down) | 1:250 | 65 | 5 |
| Trisomy 18 | 1:100 | 60 | 0.3 |
| Neural tube defects | >=2.5 MoM | 70-75 | 2-4 |
As stated above, Triple screening is a statistical determination of the risk. Thus it is not 100% accurate. Generally, the detection rate is somewhere near 70% with a false positive rate of up to 5%. Having said this, it still remains an important test to determine the risk of genetic disorders.
Difference Between Double Marker, Triple Marker & Quad marker Test
Double marker, triple marker and quadruple (quad) marker, all of these are maternal screening tests. These tests have a common objective of detecting the risk of genetic or chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. However, all of these tests differ in the tests included and time when each of these is recommended. The table below list their major differences:
| Name of the Test | Suitable Timing | Parameter Tested | Accuracy Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Marker | 10-13th Week | Beta HCG & PAPP-A | 75-85% |
| Triple Marker | 15-20th Week | AFP, HCG & Estriol | 60-70% |
| Quadruple Test | 15-20th Week | AFP, HCG & Estriol & Inhibin A | 75-80% |
It may be noted that accuracy of these tests can be further improved in combination with other parameters. For example, double marker test is often done with ultrasound NT scan. These additional observations help in improving accuracy and reducing false positive cases.
Triple marker test cost
As triple test consists of three components, thus its cost is on the higher side. Its cost usually changes depending on the lab, city & locality. Its cost tends to be in the range of Rs 2200/- to Rs 3000/-. For example, it cost Rs 2700/- at Dr. Lal path lab & whereas SRL diagnostic charges Rs 2950/- for the same test.
However, BookmeriLab has associated with some of the most reputed labs in India. In association with our lab partner, we are providing Triple marker test at starting price of Rs 1499/- in Delhi-NCR. Triple marker test is also available in 14 major cities of India at a discounted price of Rs 1999/-.
Our lab partners have NABL certification so you can be assured of the quality.
FAQs Regarding Triple Marker Test
What is the Difference between double and triple marker test?
Double Marker and triple marker tests have a common objective but both differ in the test components & timing of the test. The chart in the above section illustrates the difference clearly.
What if triple marker test is positive?
This test is most often categorize the individual in the risk categories. As the accuracy level is less than 80% with 5% false positive cases, most Doctors recommend further screening to ascertain the results. Thus, if your report shows a positive result, better consult your doctor. The other tests which are recommended are chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis
How accurate is triple marker test?
This test result is based on standardised data and statistical estimates. Thus accuracy is between 60-70% with a false positive rate of 5%. However, the accuracy of the test can be improved with the help of other parameters like LMP, body weight, Ultrasound scan, age, genetic disorder history etc.
What is CPT code for triple marker test?
CPT code of Triple test is 82105, 82677, 84702.
₹1821 ₹2700
Triple Marker