The PAPP-A test is performed using a blood sample taken from a pregnant woman - the pregnancy protein A (PAPP-A) concentration is assessed. After the blood test, an ultrasound is performed to comprehensively assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
When to perform the PAPP-A test?
According to specialists' recommendations, prenatal screening tests, which include the PAPP-A test, should be offered to all pregnant women. It is therefore worth discussing the benefits of the test with your health care provider.
Performing the aforementioned tests is particularly important for women:
- over the age of 35;
- who have a family history of genetic diseases and birth defects;
- in whom genetic diseases or fetal birth defects have been detected in previous pregnancies.
The PAPP-A test should be performed between the 11th and 14th week of pregnancy.
PAPP-A test - results
The sensitivity of the PAPP-A test is about 90%. There is a wait of up to 10 days for the results. If there is an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, the doctor may recommend additional tests, such as the NIFTY test.
Please note that the price of the PAPP-A test at the Damian Medical Center includes blood tests and ultrasound of pregnancy. For an ultrasound of pregnancy with the PAPP-A test, an appointment should be made via the hotline. The patient should report for it 2-5 working days after the blood draw.