There are some changes in Triple Test reporting

·         Quadruple test :

Inhibin A has been added as a fourth parameter making Triple a Quadruple test. This increases the T 21 detection rate from 69 % to 81 % at 5 % FPR (false positive rate).

·         Combined Screen (Quadruple in 2^nd trimester + NT done in 1^st Trimester) :

If CRL & NT were done in first trimester & readings are available, same can be incorporated in calculation for second trimester screen i.e. quadruple test. This increases the detection rate to 87 % at 5 % FPR.

·         New risk factors :

In first trimester screen, nasal bone status is incorporated; it increases the detection rate up to 95 % at 5 % FPR. Also Previous T 21 pregnancy if any can be incorporated as additional risk factor.

·         Combined T13/ T 18 risk :

First trimester screen now includes T 13/T 18 risk instead of T 18 alone.

·         Sequential screening protocol :         

Till now, NT measurement and date of sampling had to be almost the same for first trimester screen. Now the sampling could be done earlier (exact gestational age on the day of sampling is required). NT measurement can be done later. All data could still be incorporated to calculate the risk.

• Quarterly Audits of MOM &Medians through Shared database Worldwide :

Now the data base will be shared worldwide with peer group using the same equipment & kits. It will thus become more relevant and detect individual changes if any.

At a glance :

Toprani Advanced Lab Systems                                            April, 2010