Quick answer: The quad marker test is a second-trimester blood test done between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. It measures four substances (AFP, hCG, estriol and inhibin A) to estimate the chance of Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and neural tube defects. It is a screening test, so a high-risk result needs further testing, not panic.
If you missed first-trimester screening, or your gynaecologist has recommended extra screening, you may be advised a quad marker test. This guide explains when it is done, what it checks, how it differs from the double marker test, how to read the results, and what affects the price in Yelahanka.
Key takeaways
- The quad marker test is done between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, according to ACOG.
- It measures AFP, hCG, estriol and inhibin A in the mother’s blood.
- It screens for Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18) and neural tube defects.
- A high-risk result means further tests are offered; it is not a diagnosis.
- Accurate pregnancy dates from your dating scan make the result more reliable.
What is the quad marker test?
The quad marker test, also called the quadruple screen or quad screen, is a blood test done in the second trimester. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists explains that it measures four substances in your blood and screens for Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18) and neural tube defects.
The four substances are:
- AFP (alpha-fetoprotein): a protein made by the baby
- hCG (human chorionic gonadotrophin): a hormone made by the placenta
- Estriol: a hormone made by the placenta and the baby’s liver
- Inhibin A: another hormone made by the placenta
Our quad screen test page has more detail on the test at Naina Polyclinic.
In which week is the quad marker test done?
The quad marker test is done between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, as stated by ACOG. Many doctors prefer 15 to 18 weeks so that there is time for follow-up tests if needed. Your exact pregnancy dates from an early dating scan are used to calculate the result, so carry that report.
What is the difference between the double marker and quad marker test?
The double marker test is a first-trimester test done at 10 to 13 weeks with an NT scan, while the quad marker test is a second-trimester test done at 15 to 22 weeks. The quad test also screens for neural tube defects, which the double marker does not. Your gynaecologist will advise which test suits your stage of pregnancy.
| Feature | Double marker test | Quad marker test |
|---|---|---|
| Trimester | First | Second |
| Weeks | 10 to 13 | 15 to 22 |
| Substances measured | Free beta hCG, PAPP-A | AFP, hCG, estriol, inhibin A |
| Usually combined with | NT (nuchal translucency) scan | Mid-pregnancy anomaly scan (18 to 22 weeks) |
| Screens for | Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and 13 | Down syndrome, trisomy 18, neural tube defects |
| Result type | Risk estimate | Risk estimate |
Read our guide to the double marker test in Yelahanka and the double screen test page for first-trimester screening.
How do I read quad marker test results?
Quad marker results are given as a risk, written like “1 in 1,000” for each condition, and labelled as low risk (screen negative) or high risk (screen positive) based on the lab’s cut-off. Values are reported as MoM (multiples of the median). Always review the report with your gynaecologist rather than interpreting it yourself.
- Low risk: the chance is below the lab’s cut-off; routine care continues
- High risk: the chance is above the cut-off; further testing is offered
A high-risk result does not mean the baby has a condition. Most women with a screen-positive result have healthy babies.
What happens if the quad test result is high risk?
If the quad marker result is high risk, your gynaecologist will discuss further options. These may include a detailed ultrasound, cell-free DNA screening (NIPT), or a diagnostic test such as amniocentesis, which can confirm or rule out a chromosomal condition. ACOG notes that only diagnostic tests can tell whether the baby actually has the condition.
What affects the quad marker test price in Yelahanka?
The quad marker test price varies with the lab and method used, whether a consultation is included, and how quickly you need the report. Prices change over time, so ask the clinic for the current rate and what is included before you book.
| Factor | How it affects cost |
|---|---|
| Lab and risk software | Different labs use different methods |
| Consultation | Some packages include a gynaecologist review |
| Report time | Faster reports may cost more |
| Other tests on the same day | Combined antenatal panels can change the total |
Quad marker test price at Naina Polyclinic: for the current price and report time, call Naina Polyclinic on +91 88615 22910 (Kogilu Road) or +91 96637 44434 (Yelahanka New Town).
Do I need to fast for the quad marker test?
Fasting is usually not needed for the quad marker test. You can eat and drink normally. Bring your dating scan report and any earlier screening results. Your weight, age and pregnancy dates are entered into the risk calculation, so make sure these are recorded correctly at the time of the blood draw.
For other antenatal blood tests, see our lab investigations page.
Our gynaecology services cover your whole pregnancy, from screening tests to normal delivery at affiliated hospitals.
Where is Naina Polyclinic in Yelahanka?
Naina Polyclinic has served families in Yelahanka, Bengaluru, since 1998 from two centres:
- Naina Polyclinic (Kogilu Road): 2, Kogilu Main Rd, Kondappa Garden Layout, Maruthi Nagar, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064. Phone: +91 88615 22910
- Naina Polyclinic & Physiotherapy Center (Yelahanka New Town): 2057, 13th B Cross Rd, MIG Sector B, Udaya Layout, Yelahanka New Town, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064. Phone: +91 96637 44434
Dr. Rama Shankarnarayan sees patients at the Kogilu Road clinic Monday to Saturday, 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, and at the Yelahanka New Town centre on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Sunday is a holiday. Full details are on our contact and appointments page.
Related reading: our guides on double marker test in pregnancy and normal delivery vs C-section. You can also learn more about our quad screen test at Naina Polyclinic.
Frequently asked questions
When is the quad marker test done in pregnancy?
The quad marker test is done between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, according to ACOG. Many doctors prefer 15 to 18 weeks so there is enough time for further tests if needed. Your gynaecologist will tell you the best time based on your dating scan.
Is the quad marker test necessary?
It is optional. Screening for chromosomal conditions is offered to all pregnant women, and the quad test is one option in the second trimester, especially if first-trimester screening was missed. Your gynaecologist will explain what it can and cannot tell you, so you can decide.
What is the price of the quad marker test in Yelahanka?
The price depends on the lab, method, report time and whether a consultation is included. Prices change, so please call Naina Polyclinic on +91 88615 22910 (Kogilu Road) or +91 96637 44434 (Yelahanka New Town) for the current price and report time.
Does a high-risk quad test mean my baby has Down syndrome?
No. A high-risk result only means the chance is above the lab’s cut-off. Most babies with a screen-positive result do not have the condition. Your doctor will offer further tests, such as NIPT or amniocentesis, to give a clearer answer.
What is the difference between the quad test and NIPT?
The quad test is a standard blood screening test that measures four substances. NIPT (cell-free DNA screening) analyses fragments of the baby’s DNA in the mother’s blood and is more accurate for Down syndrome, but it is still a screening test. Both may be followed by diagnostic tests if needed.
Book an appointment at Naina Polyclinic
Between 15 and 22 weeks? Call us to book your quad marker test and consultation, or reach us through our contact page. Kogilu Road: +91 88615 22910. Yelahanka New Town: +91 96637 44434. In an emergency, go to the nearest emergency department.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Rama Shankarnarayan, MBBS, DGO (Obstetrics and Gynaecology), Naina Polyclinic, Yelahanka. Last reviewed: November 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Please consult a doctor about your own symptoms, tests and treatment.