PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test
About PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy, Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), Comprehensive Chromosome Screening (CCS), Embryo Genetic Testing |
| Sample Type | Embryo Biopsy (Day 5 trophectoderm cells) |
| Fasting Required | No. This test is performed on embryo cells, not on a patient's blood or urine sample. |
| Report Time | 18 Days |
| Recommended For | Couples undergoing IVF; particularly women over 35, those with recurrent miscarriage, repeated IVF failure, or a previous chromosomally abnormal pregnancy |
| Price | Starting at ₹60,000 |
What is a PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test?
The PGT - A test is a genetic screening test performed on embryos created during an in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycle. It checks all 23 pairs of chromosomes in each embryo to identify whether the chromosome number is normal or abnormal. This test covers a batch of six embryos in a single package.
Also called Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy, it helps fertility specialists select the most chromosomally sound embryos before transfer into the uterus. The sample used is a small number of cells taken from the outer layer of each blastocyst-stage embryo, a process called a trophectoderm biopsy.
What Does a PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test Measure?
The PGT - A test analyses the chromosome content of each embryo using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). The goal is to classify each embryo based on its chromosome profile before transfer.
The test examines the following:
- Chromosome number across all 23 pairs: Identifies embryos with missing or extra whole chromosomes, a condition called aneuploidy.
- Segmental abnormalities: Detects partial deletions or duplications within chromosome segments.
- Mosaicism: Identifies embryos that carry a mixed population of normal and abnormal cells, where 20% to 80% of cells show chromosomal errors.
- Euploid status: Confirms embryos with a normal complement of 46 chromosomes, which are considered suitable for transfer.
Why is a PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test Done?
A fertility specialist may recommend the PGT - A test for several clinical reasons during an IVF cycle. Below are the key indications and conditions this test addresses.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following situations typically prompt a doctor to recommend PGT - A testing:
- Advanced maternal age, particularly in women aged 35 years or older
- Two or more unexplained pregnancy losses (recurrent miscarriage)
- Repeated IVF cycles that have failed to result in implantation
- A previous pregnancy affected by a chromosomal abnormality
- Severe male factor infertility, which can affect sperm quality and embryo chromosome integrity
- Patient and specialist preference for selecting the most viable embryo before transfer
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The PGT - A test procedure screens embryos for the following chromosomal conditions:
- Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): an extra copy of chromosome 21
- Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18): an extra copy of chromosome 18
- Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): an extra copy of chromosome 13
- Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X): a missing X chromosome in female embryos
- Klinefelter Syndrome (XXY): an extra X chromosome in male embryos
- Other whole-chromosome numerical abnormalities across all 23 pairs
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The PGT - A test is part of a broader IVF cycle. Preparation is coordinated with your fertility clinic. Here is what you need to know before and during the process.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. The test is carried out on embryo cells collected in the IVF laboratory, so no dietary preparation is needed from the patient.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind as you prepare:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and family history, as this is required for the test.
- Ensure a duly filled Test Request Form (TRF), biopsy worksheet, and signed consent form are ready before sample dispatch.
- Complete all IVF preparation steps as advised by your fertility specialist before the embryo biopsy.
- Undergo genetic counselling before the test so you understand what euploid, aneuploid, and mosaic results mean.
- Be aware that not all embryos will reach the Day 5 or Day 6 blastocyst stage required for biopsy.
Step-by-Step Procedure
The following steps outline how the PGT - A test is performed during an IVF cycle:
- Eggs are retrieved from the female partner and fertilised with sperm in an IVF laboratory to create embryos.
- Embryos are allowed to develop for five to six days until they reach the blastocyst stage.
- On Day 5 or Day 6, an embryologist carefully removes five to eight cells from the trophectoderm, the outer layer of the blastocyst that forms the placenta. The inner cells that develop into the baby are not disturbed.
- The biopsied cells from all six embryos are placed in a PGT collection kit, stored on dry ice, and dispatched to the genetics laboratory for NGS analysis.
- The embryos are frozen and stored while testing is in progress.
- Results are reviewed by the genetics team and reported to your fertility specialist, who will discuss suitable embryos for transfer with you.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence the reliability of the PGT - A test result:
- Embryo quality and stage of development at the time of biopsy
- The number of cells successfully retrieved during the biopsy
- Laboratory conditions and the expertise of the embryology team
- Statistical variation or amplification bias during genetic analysis
- Possible contamination during sample handling or processing
Understanding Your PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test Results
Results are reported per embryo and fall into one of four classifications. Your fertility specialist will review each result with you before any transfer decision is made.
| Classification | Chromosome Finding | Typical Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Euploid | 46 chromosomes (normal) | Suitable for transfer; approximately 60 to 70% implantation rate |
| Aneuploid | Missing or extra chromosomes | Generally not recommended for transfer; live birth rate is very low |
| Mosaic | 20% to 80% abnormal cells | May be considered for transfer after thorough genetic counselling |
| Inconclusive | Unable to determine | May require re-biopsy or further specialist review |
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 influence on embryo chromosome results. In women younger than 30, the aneuploidy rate among embryos is approximately 27%. This rises progressively and can exceed 62% in women over 40. If you are in an older age group, your specialist will factor this into the discussion of your results and next steps.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
While chromosome outcomes cannot be directly controlled, these general steps may support better embryo quality before an IVF cycle:
- Maintain a balanced diet and healthy body weight before starting IVF treatment.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, as both can affect egg and sperm quality.
- Discuss all current medications and supplements with your fertility specialist before the IVF cycle begins.
Lupin Diagnostics PGT - A (6 embryos) Test Price
The PGT - A (6 Embryos) test costs start at ₹60,000 at Lupin Diagnostics. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available for this test.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 60000 |
| CHENNAI | 60000 |
| HYDERABAD | 60000 |
| KOLKATA | 60000 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 60000 |
| PUNE | 60000 |
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 or at a centre:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred centre location.
- Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection and documentation submission.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The PGT - A test counts all chromosomes and detects missing or extra copies, a condition called aneuploidy. PGT-M, by contrast, looks for a specific inherited gene mutation that one or both parents carry, such as cystic fibrosis. The two tests address different types of genetic concerns and are not interchangeable.
The cells are taken from the trophectoderm, the outer layer of the blastocyst that will form the placenta. A healthy blastocyst contains over 100 cells, so removing five to eight cells does not affect the embryo's development. The inner cells that form the baby are left completely undisturbed.
The PGT - A test procedure using NGS has an accuracy rate of 97% to 99% for detecting whole-chromosome abnormalities. However, since only a small sample of cells is analysed, it cannot assess every cell in the embryo. Your specialist will discuss the reliability of your specific results with you.
This outcome is more common in women over 40. Your fertility specialist may recommend completing another IVF cycle, exploring donor egg options, or considering other paths forward. Results from all six embryos together give your doctor important information for planning the next steps.
Yes, healthy live births following mosaic embryo transfers have been reported. Mosaic embryos do carry a lower chance of successful implantation compared with euploid embryos. Any decision to transfer a mosaic embryo should be made after a thorough discussion with a genetic counsellor and your fertility specialist.
The likelihood of chromosomal errors in embryos rises significantly with maternal age. Studies show the aneuploidy rate climbs from around 27% in women under 30 to over 62% in women over 40. Testing embryos before transfer helps identify those with the best chance of a successful pregnancy.
PGT-A is generally not covered by health insurance in India, as it is considered a relatively new and specialised fertility procedure. It is advisable to check directly with your insurer, as individual policies vary. Confirm the current price and coverage position with both your insurer and the diagnostic centre at the time of booking.
PGT - A (6 Embryos) Test
