A triple screen test, also called the kettering test or triple screen or the Bart’s test, is a blood screening test that checks alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), (1) and estriol. AFP protein is produced by the fetus.
HCG, the hormone is produced in the placenta. Both the placenta and the fetus produce estrogen called estriol.
A triple marker screen test takes a sample of blood and detects the levels of AFP, HCG, and estriol in it.
The results of the triple marker screen test show the likelihood of an infant having a genetic disorder such as Down syndrome or spina bifida. Test results aren’t infallible. They merely show a probability, and may be an indication for additional testing.
