Integrated test during pregnancy

Content provided by Healthwise

Integrated test during pregnancy

The integrated test is done during pregnancy to check for Down syndrome and open neural tube problems. The test is done in two stages at two different times during the pregnancy.

The first stage is done between weeks 10 and 13. The tests done for this stage are:
- An ultrasound. The ultrasound can show the age of the baby and measure the thickness of the skin at the back of the baby's neck (nuchal translucency, NT).
- A blood test to measure the level of pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A).
The second stage is done between weeks 15 and 16. The tests done for this stage are all blood test and include:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
- Free beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG).
- Unconjugated estriol (a form of estrogen).
- Inhibin A.

The results of all these tests are reviewed to see if levels are higher or lower than expected. Low levels of PAPP-A, AFP, and estriol and high levels of inhibin A, hCG, and nuchal translucency may mean Down syndrome or neural tube defects are present.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.