Maternal Serum Screen, First Trimester, hCG, PAPP-A, NT
Also known as: MS FTS
Use
The test is a first-trimester screening test used to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and trisomy 18 in the fetus. This is done in conjunction with a nuchal translucency measurement by an ultrasonographer certified by the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF). The test does not include screening for neural tube defects such as open spina bifida.
Special Instructions
The serum sample must be drawn between 11 weeks and 13 weeks, 6 days of gestation, ensuring that the crown-rump length (CRL) is between 43-83.9 mm at the time of collection. Additional paperwork required includes the Maternal Serum Testing Patient History Form. It is important to document patient information such as race, current weight, number of fetuses, smoking status, egg donor age if IVF, and other pregnancy-related factors.
Limitations
This test does not screen for open neural tube defects. Proper certification of the sonographer for the nuchal translucency measurement is necessary to prevent test delays. Factors such as fetal movement or uterine position may affect measurement accuracy and test efficacy. If an NT is unobtainable, other screening options may be required.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 49586-1
- 19151-0
- 21484-1
- 11878-6
- 21612-7
- 12146-7
- 32123-2
- 49089-6
- 49088-8
- 34970-4
- 49035-9
- 32435-0
- 48407-1
- 64234-8
- 11957-8
- 11526-1
- 19080-1
- 20465-1
- 18185-9
- 29463-7
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
3 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer to an ARUP standard transport tube.
Patient Preparation
Specimen must be drawn between 11 weeks, 0 days and 13 weeks, 6 days gestation. CRL must be between 43-83.9 mm at time of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
Plasma; Hemolyzed specimens
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |