Quadruple screen

A blood test can be performed between the 15th and 22nd weeks of the pregnancy to determine whether the baby is at risk for certain birth defects. Blood is drawn from a vein and the sample is sent to a laboratory for testing. If the test is abnormal other tests can be performed to rule out birth defects.

Update Date: 2/7/2011

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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