Maternal Serum Screening (MSS)

Your informed start to pregnancy

**Maternal serum screening is a screening test, abnormal results require follow-up with NIPT or diagnostic procedures.**

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What is Maternal Serum Screening?

Maternal Serum Screening (MSS), often called the "Dual Screen" or "First Trimester Combined Screening," is a non-invasive prenatal test performed on a sample of the mother's blood. It analyses specific proteins and hormones produced by the placenta and fetus that can indicate an increased chance for certain chromosomal conditions and neural tube defects. It is important to understand: MSS is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. It assesses probability, not certainty. A "screen positive" result indicates a higher chance, prompting discussion about confirmatory diagnostic tests like Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) or Amniocentesis.

What does it screen for?

  • Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): A condition involving mild to moderate intellectual disability and potential physical challenges.
  • Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome): A more severe condition associated with significant medical issues and a low survival rate.
  • Open Neural Tube Defects (ONTDs): Problems with the development of the brain and spine, such as Spina Bifida.

Who Should Consider Screening?

  • Offered to all pregnant individuals; especially helpful for early, non-invasive insights, family history, previous affected pregnancy, or deciding on further testing.
  • First Trimester (9–13 weeks): Blood test (PAPP-A, hCG) + NT scan.
  • Second Trimester Triple Screen (14–22 weeks, best 16–18): AFP, hCG, uE3.
  • Second Trimester Quad Screen (14–22 weeks, best 16–18): AFP, hCG, uE3, Inhibin A.

Test Specifications

Methodology

CLIA

Risk Calculation

Triple/Quadruple marker by Bentech (MA, NT scan & more), Double marker by AutoDELFIA/ROCHE

TAT

2 days

Instrumentation

Beckman Coulter Access 2

Reporting Units

ng/mL or pg/mL or IU/mL

Sample Type

Serum

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Early & Accurate

Comprehensive testing across both molecular and cytogenetic platforms

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Accredited Laboratories

Faster turnaround time for timely clinical decision making

Advanced Technology

High accuracy with advanced technologies and stringent quality controls

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Frequently Asked Questions

No. It only means the probability is higher, not confirmed. You’ll need follow-up tests like NIPT or diagnostic procedures to know for sure.

Yes, because scans and blood tests look at different things. MSS can pick up risks that may not be visible on ultrasound alone.

Timing matters a lot. Outside the recommended weeks, the accuracy drops and results may not be reliable

It depends on your situation. MSS is often the first step, while NIPT is more advanced. Your doctor or genetic counsellor can guide what’s right for you.

Quad screening includes one extra marker (Inhibin A), which can improve risk assessment. It’s generally preferred if available.

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