Necessary Information

To provide the best result interpretation, either answer the order entry questions or provide the required information using the Second Trimester Maternal Screening Alpha-Fetoprotein / Quad Screen Patient Information (T595).

Specimen Required

Collection Container/Tube:

Preferred: Serum gel

Acceptable: Red top

Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial

Specimen Volume: 1 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Do not collect specimen after amniocentesis as this could affect results.

2. Within 2 hours of collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.

Additional Information:

1. For an assessment that includes neural tube defect results, gestational age must be between 15 weeks, 0 days and 22 weeks, 6 days.

2. Assessments for trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) only are available between 14 weeks, 0 days and 22 weeks, 6 days.

3. Initial or repeat testing is determined in the laboratory at the time of report and will be reported accordingly. To be considered a repeat test for the patient, the testing must be within the same pregnancy and trimester, with interpretable results for the same tests, and both tests are performed at Mayo Clinic.

4. Maternal Serum Screening patient education brochure (T522) is available upon request.