What is one of the components measured in a Quad screen test?

The Quad screen test is a maternal blood screening test used to assess the risk of certain conditions during pregnancy, particularly for Down syndrome and other abnormalities. One key component measured in this test is AFP, or alpha-fetoprotein. AFP is a protein produced by the fetal liver, and abnormal levels of AFP in the mother's blood can indicate potential issues with the pregnancy, such as neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities.

The Quad screen specifically measures four biomarkers to provide a more comprehensive assessment than earlier tri-screen tests. Alongside AFP, the Quad screen measures free β-hCG, Inhibin A, and estriol. However, AFP is significant as it is the original marker from earlier tests that has been part of fetal anomaly screening. Its presence and level can offer critical insights into fetal health and development.