The TDSHS Prenatal Testing Laboratory performs tests to detect certain types of birth defects. The laboratory participates in external proficiency testing to ensure accurate test results.

Prenatal Studies
The Prenatal Testing Laboratory offers Triple Screen Analysis for alpha fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), and unconjugated estriol (uE3) levels in maternal serum. Triple Screen results are used, along with maternal age, race, weight and diabetic status, to calculate the risk for trisomy 21, trisomy 18, and neural tube and ventral wall defects.

Reports
Prenatal test results are faxed and mailed to the referral source as soon as they are completed.

Reporting Times:

Maternal serum Triple Screen.........................2-3 days

For more information about our laboratory services,
call our toll-free number:

1-800-687-GENE
(1-800-687-4363)

Prenatal Testing
Texas Department of State Health Services • Laboratory Services Section
1100 West 49th Street, Austin Tx 78756
(512) 458-7138 • Fax (512) 458-7139

SUMMARY OF PRENATAL TEST REQUIREMENTS

Test	CPT Code	Amount & Type of Specimen	Form
Alpha fetoprotein	82105	2 ml maternal serum	G-1C
Human chorionic gonadotrophin	84702
Unconjugated estriol	82677
Storage/Shipping
Collect specimen in red top blood collection tube. Allow specimen to clot. Serum must be separated from red blood cells within 2 hours from time of collection. Transfer serum specimen to a plastic transport tube. Freeze serum specimens prior to shipping. Document the date and time specimens were removed from the freezer on the G-1C form. Mail specimens overnight on cold packs. Do not ship specimens to DSHS laboratory on Friday or the day before a Federally observed holiday.

Laboratory certification numbers:

CLIA (HCFA) 45D0660644
Medicare Provider CLO688

Last Updated July 1st, 2005