PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Screening), Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy, Comprehensive Chromosome Screening (CCS) |
| Sample Type | Embryo biopsy (Day 5 trophectoderm cells) |
| Fasting Required | No |
| Report Time | 18 Days |
| Recommended For | Couples undergoing IVF, particularly women over 35, those with recurrent miscarriages, or repeated implantation failure |
| Price | Starting at ₹50,000 |
What is a PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test?
The PGT - A test is a genetic screening procedure performed on embryos during an in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle. It checks all 24 chromosomes in each embryo to identify which ones have a normal chromosome count. The test is done on cells collected from five embryos at the blastocyst stage, typically on Day 5 or Day 6 after fertilisation.
The PGT - A test is also known as Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) or Comprehensive Chromosome Screening (CCS). It is not performed on the patient directly but on embryo samples processed in a specialised laboratory.
What Does a PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test Measure?
The PGT - A test procedure uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology to analyse cells taken from the outer layer of each embryo. It examines all chromosomes and produces a classification for each embryo.
The following parameters are assessed for each of the five embryos:
| Parameter Assessed | What it Tells You |
|---|---|
| All 24 chromosomes (22 autosomes plus X and Y) | Whether the embryo has the correct number of chromosomes |
| Euploidy status | Embryos with 46 chromosomes are classified as chromosomally normal |
| Aneuploidy detection | Identifies embryos with extra or missing chromosomes |
| Mosaicism level | Detects a mix of normal and abnormal cells within the same embryo |
| Sex chromosomes (XX or XY) | Determines the chromosomal sex of the embryo |
Why is a PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test Done?
This test helps fertility specialists select the embryo most likely to result in a healthy pregnancy. Below are the common reasons a doctor may recommend it.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following situations are typical indications for PGT - A testing:
- Advanced maternal age (over 35 years)
- History of recurrent miscarriages
- Repeated implantation failure in previous IVF cycles
- A previous pregnancy affected by a chromosomal condition
- A known chromosomal abnormality in either partner
- Desire to improve IVF success rates
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The test can identify chromosomal problems in embryos, including:
- Trisomy (one extra chromosome), such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
- Monosomy (one missing chromosome), such as Turner syndrome
- Segmental aneuploidies (missing or extra pieces of a chromosome)
- Polyploidy (extra complete sets of chromosomes)
- General chromosomal imbalances linked to failed implantation or miscarriage
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The PGT - A test procedure takes place in the embryology laboratory as part of an IVF cycle, not through a routine sample collection. Here is what you should know before and during the process.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. This test is performed on embryo biopsy samples and does not involve any blood draw or urine collection from the patient.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before the procedure begins:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Carry a duly filled Test Request Form (TRF), biopsy worksheet, and signed consent form, all of which are required for sample processing.
- Discuss with your fertility specialist whether PGT - A testing is suitable for your clinical situation.
- Complete genetic counselling before testing so you understand the possible results.
- Be aware that not all embryos may reach the blastocyst stage and be eligible for biopsy.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The procedure takes place entirely within the IVF clinic and laboratory. Here is what happens:
- The embryos are cultured until Day 5 or Day 6 after fertilisation, when they reach the blastocyst stage.
- The embryologist uses a laser to gently open the outer shell of the blastocyst (a process called zona pellucida opening).
- Five to six cells are carefully removed from the trophectoderm, which is the outer layer of the embryo that would eventually form the placenta.
- The biopsied cells are placed into a PGT collection kit and stored at the required temperature for transport to the laboratory.
- The embryos are frozen and kept safely while the laboratory analyses the genetic material.
- Results are communicated to your fertility specialist, who will discuss them with you before any embryo transfer is planned.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may influence the quality of results:
- The developmental quality of the embryo at the time of biopsy
- The skill and experience of the embryologist performing the biopsy
- Technical variables such as DNA amplification quality during laboratory analysis
- The presence of mosaicism (a mix of normal and abnormal cells) within an embryo
- Liquid carryover or sample handling issues during transport
Understanding Your PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test Results
Your fertility specialist and a genetic counsellor will review your results together with you. The table below provides a general guide to how results are classified.
| Result Category | Chromosome Count | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Euploid (normal) | 46 (46, XX or 46, XY) | Chromosomally normal; recommended for transfer |
| Aneuploid (abnormal) | More than or less than 46 | Chromosomally abnormal; not recommended for transfer |
| Mosaic (low level) | Less than 30% abnormal cells | Generally classified as euploid |
| Mosaic (intermediate) | 30 to 70% abnormal cells | May be considered for transfer in selected cases |
| Mosaic (high level) | More than 70% abnormal cells | Classified as aneuploid; not recommended for transfer |
Disclaimer: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Maternal age has a significant effect on aneuploidy rates. The proportion of aneuploid embryos rises from approximately 28% in women under 30 to approximately 67% in older age groups. In women over 42, the aneuploidy rate can reach approximately 80%. If all five embryos return aneuploid results, this does not predict the outcome of future IVF cycles, as each cycle is assessed independently.
Occasionally, technical factors such as DNA amplification difficulties may produce an inconclusive result, requiring a re-biopsy.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While chromosome count in embryos cannot be controlled directly, the following steps support overall reproductive health:
- Attend all pre-IVF consultations and follow your fertility specialist's guidance on timing and medication.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol intake, as these are associated with poorer embryo quality.
- Complete genetic counselling both before and after testing to help you understand and act on your results.
Lupin Diagnostics PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test Price
The PGT - A test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹50,000 for five embryos. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre or an affiliated IVF facility; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 5000 |
| CHENNAI | 5000 |
| HYDERABAD | 5000 |
| KOLKATA | 5000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 5000 |
| PUNE | 5000 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Follow these steps to book your PGT - A test online:
- Select the PGT - A (5 Embryos) test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time; embryo biopsy samples are collected and dispatched from the IVF clinic.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time of 18 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
The PGT - A test screens embryos created during IVF for chromosomal abnormalities before transfer to the uterus. Identifying chromosomally normal embryos, it helps improve the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduces the risk of miscarriage or chromosomally affected births.
This test is most commonly recommended for women over 35, those who have experienced recurrent miscarriages, couples with repeated implantation failure in previous IVF cycles, and those who have had a previous pregnancy with a chromosomal condition. Your fertility specialist will advise whether it is suitable for your situation.
An euploid embryo has the correct number of chromosomes, 46 in total. These embryos are classified as chromosomally normal and are generally recommended for transfer. Euploid embryos have approximately a 60% chance of resulting in a live birth.
At Lupin Diagnostics, results for the PGT - A (5 embryos) test are delivered within 18 days. Embryos are frozen and stored safely while the genetic analysis is completed in the laboratory.
A mosaic embryo contains a mixture of chromosomally normal and abnormal cells. Embryos with 30 to 70% abnormal cells are classified as mosaic. In selected cases, mosaic embryos may be considered for transfer, but this decision should be made carefully with a fertility specialist and genetic counsellor.
No. The test improves the likelihood of a successful outcome by selecting chromosomally normal embryos, but it does not guarantee pregnancy. Other factors, such as uterine receptivity and overall embryo quality, also play an important role.
If all five embryos return abnormal results, this can be disappointing. However, the result of one IVF cycle does not predict the outcome of future cycles. Each cycle is considered independently, and your fertility specialist will discuss the next steps with you.
PGT - A (5 Embryos) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
