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| Basic Information |
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| Definition |
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A relatively common screening of a blood sample taken from the mother
usually during the 15th to 20th week of pregnancy. Many women find
this prenatal testing useful with 40% of pregnant women having the
test each year. The primary measurement on the triple screen is
for maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP or AFP), a protein
produced by the liver cells of every fetus and is present in both
the amniotic fluid and the mother's blood. Testing for human
chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and unconjugated estriol (uE3) is
combined with the AFP test to help improve the results.
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| Reasons For Procedure |
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To help rule out possible fetal abnormalities. The triple test is for
screening purposes only and further testing is always necessary for
accurate diagnosis of any problem.
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| Risk Increases With |
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No expected risks with the blood test itself
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| Description of Procedure |
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Blood is usually drawn by needle from the upper arm (sometimes from
the finger, heel or earlobe). The sample is then sent to a laboratory
for testing. Results are available in a few days.
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| Expected Outcome |
- The majority of time (over 95%), the test results fall within
the normal range.
- About 3 to 5% of women tested will have AFP levels outside the
normal range the first time and 3% of these women will still have
abnormal levels on a repeat blood test. These women will be offered
genetic counseling which may lead to further testing such as
amniocentesis, ultrasound or other prenatal tests to help verify if
a problem exists.
- Higher concentrations of AFP levels may indicate:
- A neural tube defect such as spina bifida (failure of the
- spinal column to dose completely).
- Other rarer abnormalities.
- Threatened abortion.
- Twins (or triplets) are expected.
- Abruptio placentae.
- The pregnancy is inaccurately dated.
- AFP levels can be abnormally low which may indicate:
- The pregnancy is inaccurately dated.
- Trisomy-21 (Down syndrome).
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| Possible Complications |
- Some discoloration, soreness or swelling may develop at the
puncture site.
- False-positive results of the test which can cause anxiety
and worry for the parents-to-be.
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| Treatment/Post Procedure Care |
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| General Measures |
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Use warm compresses if blood collects under the puncture site or if
the area becomes tender, red or painful.
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| Medication |
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Medicine is usually not necessary.
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| Activity |
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No restriction
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| Diet |
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No special diet
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| Notify Your Healthcare Provider If |
- Following the test, you have any unusual pain or reaction at the puncture site.
- You need further information about the testing or test results.
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