PAPP-A (Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein A) – BC277
🤰 First Trimester Screening
₹399
MRP ₹500
Sample Time: 4:30 PM
Report: Next day Evening
Sample Type: Blood (Serum)
Test Code: BC277
Report: Next day Evening
Sample Type: Blood (Serum)
Test Code: BC277
About this Test:
The PAPP-A (Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein A) test measures the level of a specific protein produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It is a critical component of the First Trimester Screening (Dual Marker Test) used to assess the health of the fetus and the placenta.
✔ A key screening test for chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards' Syndrome (Trisomy 18).
✔ Helps assess placental function and predict risks like preeclampsia or growth restriction.
✔ Typically performed between 11 and 13 weeks + 6 days of pregnancy.
✔ A simple blood test for the mother, posing no risk to the baby.
The PAPP-A (Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein A) test measures the level of a specific protein produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It is a critical component of the First Trimester Screening (Dual Marker Test) used to assess the health of the fetus and the placenta.
✔ A key screening test for chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Edwards' Syndrome (Trisomy 18).
✔ Helps assess placental function and predict risks like preeclampsia or growth restriction.
✔ Typically performed between 11 and 13 weeks + 6 days of pregnancy.
✔ A simple blood test for the mother, posing no risk to the baby.
Why is PAPP-A Important in Early Pregnancy?
PAPP-A is vital for the early growth and development of the fetus and the placenta. The levels of this protein in the mother's blood naturally increase as the pregnancy progresses. However, abnormally low levels in the first trimester can be an early warning sign.
Screening for Genetic Disorders
PAPP-A is most commonly measured alongside another hormone called Free Beta hCG and an ultrasound scan (Nuchal Translucency scan). This combination is known as the Dual Marker Test or Combined Screening.
- Low PAPP-A Levels: Significantly low levels are associated with an increased risk that the baby may have a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21).
- Placental Health: Low levels can also indicate issues with the placenta's function, potentially predicting later complications like preeclampsia (high blood pressure), premature birth, or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) where the baby is smaller than expected.
Important Note: This test is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. An abnormal result identifies higher risk but does not diagnose a condition. Further testing (like NIPT or amniocentesis) would be needed for confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When should I take the PAPP-A test?
This test is time-sensitive. It is most effective when performed during the first trimester, specifically between the 11th week and the 13th week + 6 days of pregnancy.
This test is time-sensitive. It is most effective when performed during the first trimester, specifically between the 11th week and the 13th week + 6 days of pregnancy.
Q2: What does a low PAPP-A level mean?
A low level suggests a higher risk for certain chromosomal conditions (like Down Syndrome) or potential placental issues that could affect the baby's growth or lead to preeclampsia. Your doctor will interpret this result alongside your ultrasound and other markers.
A low level suggests a higher risk for certain chromosomal conditions (like Down Syndrome) or potential placental issues that could affect the baby's growth or lead to preeclampsia. Your doctor will interpret this result alongside your ultrasound and other markers.
Q3: Does a low result mean my baby definitely has a problem?
No. PAPP-A is a screening test, not a diagnosis. Many women with low PAPP-A go on to have perfectly healthy babies. A low result simply means you may need closer monitoring or further testing to be sure.
No. PAPP-A is a screening test, not a diagnosis. Many women with low PAPP-A go on to have perfectly healthy babies. A low result simply means you may need closer monitoring or further testing to be sure.
Q4: Do I need to fast for this test?
No, fasting is not required for the PAPP-A blood test. You can eat and drink normally.
No, fasting is not required for the PAPP-A blood test. You can eat and drink normally.
Q5: Is this test safe for the baby?
Yes, absolutely. It is a non-invasive blood test where the sample is taken from the mother's arm. It poses no risk to the fetus.
Yes, absolutely. It is a non-invasive blood test where the sample is taken from the mother's arm. It poses no risk to the fetus.