QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes (13, 18, 21, 15, 16, 22, X, Y) with MCC Test: Booking, Price, and Results

The QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes with MCC test is a rapid molecular genetic test that checks for abnormal chromosome numbers in eight specific chromosomes. It also verifies whether the foetal sample has been contaminated with the mother's cells, a process known as Maternal Cell Contamination (MCC) detection. Doctors prescribe this test during pregnancy when screening results or ultrasound findings raise concerns or when investigating the cause of a pregnancy loss. It is also known as the QF-PCR Extended Panel or Rapid Aneuploidy Detection Extended Panel.

This test is used in two main situations: prenatal diagnosis during pregnancy and investigation after a pregnancy loss. Below are the common reasons a doctor may order it.

Common Symptoms That May Require This Test

Several clinical findings and personal history factors may prompt a doctor to recommend this test. The following are the most common reasons for referral:

• Abnormal first-trimester or second-trimester screening results
• Abnormal ultrasound findings such as increased nuchal translucency or structural anomalies
• Advanced maternal age (35 years or older)
• Previous pregnancy affected by a chromosomal abnormality
• Family history of chromosomal disorders
• Recurrent pregnancy loss requiring investigation

Conditions This Test Can Help Detect

The QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes with MCC test can help identify a range of chromosomal conditions.

• Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome), Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) and Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
• Sex chromosome conditions including Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, Trisomy X (XXX), and XYY
• Trisomies of chromosomes 15, 16, and 22, which are common causes of miscarriage
• Triploidy, a condition where the foetus has three complete sets of chromosomes instead of two (69 chromosomes instead of the usual 46)
• Molar pregnancies

The QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes with MCC test procedure involves two samples collected at different points. Here is what you need to know before and during the process.

Do You Need to Fast?

No fasting is required. You may eat and drink normally before the procedure.

Practical Tips Before Your Test

A few practical steps will help the process go smoothly.

• Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results and family history, as this is required for the test. Also carry your full address and a working mobile number.
• This test can only be ordered by a registered physician. Ensure you have a doctor's referral before booking.
• Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking.
• You may be asked to keep your bladder full before a CVS procedure, as this helps position the uterus correctly.
• A maternal blood sample will also be collected alongside the foetal sample. Be prepared for both.
• Arrange for someone to take you home after the invasive sample collection procedure and plan for rest, as advised by your doctor.

Step-by-Step Procedure

The QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes with MCC test procedure involves two separate collections:

Foetal Sample Collection (Chorionic Villus Sample) ):

1. Your doctor will review your clinical history and confirm the reason for the test.
2. An ultrasound is performed to guide the procedure and confirm the position of the placenta.
3. A chorionic villus sample (CVS) is used (usually from 11 weeks onwards); a needle is used to obtain a small piece of tissue from the placenta, guided by ultrasound to ensure accuracy and safety.

Maternal Blood Sample Collection:

1. A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. This is used separately for the maternal cell contamination (MCC) analysis to confirm that no maternal DNA has entered the foetal sample.
2. Samples are stored in appropriate containers and kept refrigerated until they reach the laboratory.
3. The laboratory performs DNA extraction and QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes with MCC test analysis, and results are ready within 3 days.

Factors That Can Affect Accuracy

Certain conditions may influence the reliability of the test result.

• Poor sample quality or improper handling during or after collection
• High levels of maternal cell contamination in the foetal sample
• Confined placental mosaicism, where the chromosomal profile of the placenta differs from that of the baby
• Incorrect collection technique during the invasive procedure
• Mosaicism or MCC may go undetected if the affected cell population is below approximately 20%

For this type of genetic test, the focus after receiving results is on informed follow-up rather than lifestyle changes. The following general wellness steps support a healthy pregnancy alongside genetic testing:

• Follow all prenatal care recommendations from your healthcare provider and keep all scheduled antenatal appointments.
• Consider genetic counselling before and after testing to fully understand what the results mean for your pregnancy.
• Continue regular follow-up ultrasounds and any additional diagnostic steps as advised by your doctor.

The QFPCR Extended – 8 Probes with MCC test online booking is straightforward.

1. Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
2. Choose your city and preferred centre location.
3. Visit the centre at your scheduled time for sample collection.
4. Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.