Which analytes are included in a Quad Screen?

The Quad Screen is a maternal blood test that assesses the risk of certain fetal conditions during the second trimester of pregnancy. It typically measures four specific analytes: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estriol, and inhibin A. Each of these components plays a crucial role in evaluating the risk of Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and neural tube defects.

Alpha-fetoprotein is a protein produced by the fetus that can indicate potential neural tube defects if found at abnormal levels in the maternal serum. Human chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone that can indicate potential chromosomal abnormalities. Estriol is an estrogen produced by both the fetus and the placenta, and its levels can vary in relation to Down syndrome risks. Inhibin A is a hormone that increases during pregnancy and is also associated with chromosomal abnormalities.

Therefore, indicating all four of these analytes as part of the Quad Screen provides a comprehensive assessment to help identify the risk of certain congenital conditions.