Quad Screen Results

Kristalyn85 · January 2014

Hi Everyone!

My quad screen came back with a 'high risk' of Down Syndrome. 1 in 12 chance, but it still seems like odds are in my favor, right?.....

My OBGYN recommends that I get further testing done to determine if my baby will have Down Syndrome. I will love this baby either way, and know that having an amnio is way more invasive. Any suggestions on whether I should/shouldn't get more testing done?

almendarez · January 2014

If insurance doesn't cover the DNA tests, I know that Verifi is $1500 max out of pocket and Harmony is max $800 out of pocket (I called them both). I would call your insurance company and see which DNA tests are covered. I couldn't get a straight answer from my insurance company but hopefully your representatives are more helpful.

I ended up going with the MaterniT21 DNA test because my doctor said that by submitting our screening results as 'abnormal' or 'high risk' (I cant remember exactly what she called it), the most we should be charged for that test is around $200. Hopefully she is right.

Sorry you received the 'high risk' result, but there is still a very good chance that the baby does not have down syndrome!

chickpea912 · January 2014

The risk with amnio (I did this) is very small, but it isn't for everyone. The new blood test could be an option.

Kristalyn85 · January 2014

When I spoke with the Dr. he said that there were several options. I think I was in shock at the time, and heard amnio, and nothing else. I have not checked with insurance, since the results just came back today, but thanks for all of the suggestions ladies, just talking about it makes me feel better!

colllydon · January 2014

I just want to send thoughts and prayers!

chickpea912 · January 2014

In my case, amnio was covered by insurance. With the risks as low as they were, and my need for definitive information (as opposed to the not-quite-as definitive information you get from the blood test), I opted for amnio. I was just afraid I would worry too much with the blood test and would end up opting to do an amnio anyway.

My particular office has an oop max of $200 for the blood test, I believe - so it might not be as expensive as it sounds. I also couldn't get insurance to give me a number.

katiebartton · January 2014

A lot of MFM offices have max OOP rates for the DNA tests such as Maternit21 or panorama. My OB was unaware of the deal so I'd call whichever MFM office you get referred to. I did the Panoroma test and insurance did not cover. All I paid was $150.

lola4411 · January 2014

i had a positive afp test and i opted for the harmony blood test. i was more comfortable with that than with amnio at this point. also, our state (ca) covers these tests completely. i wonder if your state has something similar? otherwise i bet your insurance covers at least one test. FX

lizok22 · January 2014

I've been through this. My odds were 1 in 89. How old are? If you are AMA you automatically are high risk. If not, I would get the maternit21 or verifi, panorama, or harmony done. If that is clear, you should be ok. Although amnio is the only way to know for sure. Pm me if you have questions.

almendarez · January 2014

lola4411 said:

i had a positive afp test and i opted for the harmony blood test. i was more comfortable with that than with amnio at this point. also, our state (ca) covers these tests completely. i wonder if your state has something similar? otherwise i bet your insurance covers at least one test. FX

California covers Harmony? I don't think it does, otherwise my doctors would have recommended Harmony right off the bat..

lola4411 · January 2014

almendarez said:

lola4411 said:

i had a positive afp test and i opted for the harmony blood test. i was more comfortable with that than with amnio at this point. also, our state (ca) covers these tests completely. i wonder if your state has something similar? otherwise i bet your insurance covers at least one test. FX

California covers Harmony? I don't think it does, otherwise my doctors would have recommended Harmony right off the bat..

that is what we were told today. i had the choice of amnio or harmony covered by the state and i chose the harmony test. i got it done today at the lab and was provided with paperwork to bill the state. definitely ask your doctor about that option.

Kristalyn85 · January 2014

lizok22 said:

I've been through this. My odds were 1 in 89. How old are? If you are AMA you automatically are high risk. If not, I would get the maternit21 or verifi, panorama, or harmony done. If that is clear, you should be ok. Although amnio is the only way to know for sure. Pm me if you have questions.

I am only 28 so not AMA.

It sounds like everyone thinks I should get further testing, I just need to figure out insurance and what would be best for me. I am a preschool special education teacher, so honestly this would be something I am used to, just as a FTM it makes me a little nervous.

Julie&Micah · January 2014

Kristalyn85 said:

lizok22 said:

I've been through this. My odds were 1 in 89. How old are? If you are AMA you automatically are high risk. If not, I would get the maternit21 or verifi, panorama, or harmony done. If that is clear, you should be ok. Although amnio is the only way to know for sure. Pm me if you have questions.

I am only 28 so not AMA.

It sounds like everyone thinks I should get further testing, I just need to figure out insurance and what would be best for me. I am a preschool special education teacher, so honestly this would be something I am used to, just as a FTM it makes me a little nervous.

I was in the EXACT same place with my DD two years ago. We started with the same odds you were given, I was 28 and I'm also a sped preschool teacher. So I feel the sentiment of understanding the disability but nervous as a ftm. At the time we did an amnio (the blood tests weren't an option then) and amnio was covered on my insurance. Your are probably on the right track...check with what works for your insurance best. I always think knowing to be prepared is best. Of course you are familiar with EI knowledge and options already, I had wanted to know and be prepared if there were going to be any health/medical concerns that often go with DS. I hope it all goes well for you and fwiw my DD did not end up having DS

MissBHaven1024 · January 2014

First, I am sorry that you have gotten these results from your quad screen. I will be sending you many prayers that baby is happy and healthy!

Secondly, I would definitely look into doing the free cell DNA test. I'm not sure of the cost, but it will give more detailed results. I did the free cell test a few weeks ago and got the results 2 weeks later. It's a pretty good turnaround time.

I'll be thinking of you!