Pregnancy-specific protein and hormone profile (20-item panel)

This screening panel includes a group of blood tests that measure specific proteins and hormones produced during pregnancy, such as PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A), inhibin A, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and estriol. Together, these markers give your healthcare provider a picture of your baby's development and help assess the chance of certain chromosomal conditions and birth defects.

This panel typically includes tests for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), free beta-hCG, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), inhibin A, estriol (E3), and others, depending on the specific implementation. Some tests may also measure markers like prolactin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), or other pregnancy-related proteins. Always confirm with your healthcare provider which specific tests are ordered for your situation.

These tests are done to estimate the likelihood that your baby may have certain conditions, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, or open neural tube defects like spina bifida. The results do not diagnose these conditions on their own, but they help your provider decide whether further testing, such as a detailed ultrasound or diagnostic procedures, may be useful for your pregnancy.

These tests help monitor early pregnancy viability, screen for genetic conditions, evaluate maternal health (such as thyroid function or protein levels), and detect signs of complications like miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or preeclampsia. Some tests may also be used to assess fetal development or screen for neural tube defects.

These tests are performed at set points during pregnancy. PAPP-A is usually measured between the 10th and 13th weeks as part of first trimester screening, while inhibin A and the other second trimester markers are typically measured between the 15th and 22nd weeks, most often around weeks 16 to 18. Your provider will schedule the blood draw based on your gestational age to help ensure the results are as accurate as possible.

Pregnancy-specific protein and hormone panels like this are often ordered during the first trimester (around 10–14 weeks) for screening purposes, but they may also be requested later in pregnancy for additional monitoring or diagnostic reasons. Your healthcare provider will determine the timing based on your medical history and pregnancy needs.

These tests are done with a simple blood draw. A healthcare professional cleans a small area on your arm, usually the inside of your elbow, and collects a small sample of blood into a tube. The sample is then sent to a laboratory, where each marker is measured. Your lab values are combined with details such as your age, weight, gestational age, and sometimes ultrasound measurements to calculate a personalized risk estimate.

Blood samples are typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is then analyzed using various laboratory techniques, such as immunoassays or other specialized methods, to measure hormone and protein levels.