QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | QF-PCR with MCC, Quantitative Fluorescent PCR with Maternal Cell Contamination Test, Rapid Aneuploidy Detection with MCC |
| Sample Type | Foetal sample (chorionic villus/amniotic fluid) and maternal blood sample |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | Pregnant women undergoing prenatal genetic testing |
| Price | Starting at ₹2,250 |
What Is a QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test?
The QFPCR (single probe) with MCC test is a specialised molecular genetic test used during pregnancy to check for chromosomal abnormalities in a foetal sample. QFPCR stands for Quantitative Fluorescent Polymerase Chain Reaction. The "single probe" refers to testing one specific chromosome marker, while MCC stands for Maternal Cell Contamination, a check that confirms the sample analysed contains only foetal DNA and not the mother's cells. It is also known as the QF-PCR with MCC test or Rapid Aneuploidy Detection with MCC.
What Does a QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test Measure?
This test analyses two key components. The table below explains each:
| Component | What It Checks |
|---|---|
| Chromosome copy number (single target) | Detects whether the foetus has the correct number of copies of a specific chromosome by amplifying DNA at chromosome-specific locations |
| Maternal Cell Contamination (MCC) | Identifies whether any maternal cells or DNA have entered the foetal sample, which could lead to inaccurate results |
The MCC component uses highly variable DNA markers called short tandem repeats (STRs) to distinguish foetal DNA from maternal DNA. This step is essential before any genetic result is reported.
Why Is a QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test Done?
Doctors recommend this test when there is a reason to investigate potential chromosomal abnormalities in the developing baby. It provides fast and targeted information. Below are the most common reasons.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following clinical findings or risk factors typically lead a doctor to recommend this test:
- Abnormal first-trimester screening results (such as combined screening or NIPT)
- Increased nuchal translucency or structural abnormalities seen on ultrasound
- Advanced maternal age (35 years or older)
- A previous pregnancy affected by a chromosomal abnormality
- A high-risk result from non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
- A family history of chromosomal disorders
- Recurrent miscarriages being investigated for a genetic cause
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
The QFPCR with MCC test can help identify the following chromosomal conditions:
- Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome): an extra copy of chromosome 21
- Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome): an extra copy of chromosome 18
- Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome): an extra copy of chromosome 13
- Triploidy: an additional complete set of chromosomes
- Sex chromosome abnormalities, including Turner syndrome and Klinefelter syndrome (XXY)
- Significant maternal cell contamination that could affect other genetic test results
QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test During Pregnancy
This test is a routine part of prenatal genetic testing for high-risk pregnancies. A maternal cell contamination check is performed as the first step to confirm that the foetal DNA sample is free from maternal DNA before chromosomal analysis is carried out. It is most commonly requested after an invasive sample collection procedure such as CVS or amniocentesis.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
The QFPCR 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 for this test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of sample collection.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results and family history.
- Form-G with a detailed clinical history, your complete address and a mobile number is required for this test.
- 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.
- 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 (single probe) with MCC test procedure involves two separate collections:
Foetal Sample Collection (Chorionic Villus Sample or Amniotic Fluid):
- Your doctor will review your clinical history and confirm the reason for the test.
- If 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.
- If amniocentesis is used (usually around 16 weeks of pregnancy), a fine needle is guided through the abdomen into the uterus using ultrasound, and a small amount of amniotic fluid is collected.
- Both procedures are guided by ultrasound to ensure accuracy and safety.
Maternal Blood Sample Collection:
- 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.
- All samples are stored in appropriate containers and kept refrigerated until they reach the laboratory.
- The laboratory performs DNA extraction and QFPCR with MCC test analysis, and results are ready within 3 days.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors can influence the reliability of results:
- Quality and quantity of the foetal DNA sample collected
- Presence of maternal blood in the foetal sample at the time of collection
- Timing of the sample collection during pregnancy
- Low-level mosaicism (a mix of normal and abnormal cells) may not always be detected
- Laboratory expertise in genetic analysis
Understanding Your QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test Results
Results from this test should always be reviewed with your doctor or a genetic counsellor. The table below gives a general guide to what the values mean.
| Parameter | Normal Result | Abnormal Result |
|---|---|---|
| Chromosome copy number | 2 copies (disomic) | More than 2 copies (trisomy) |
| Peak ratio | 0.9 to 1.1 (two copies present) | 1.4 to 1.6 (three copies, indicating trisomy) |
| MCC status | No contamination detected | Maternal DNA detected in foetal sample |
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
Certain situations can affect how results are interpreted:
- Uncultured amniocytes carry a higher risk of maternal contamination due to the presence of maternal blood in the sample.
- Cultured CVS samples may also carry a risk from remaining uterine tissue.
- Low-level mosaicism, where only a small number of cells carry a chromosomal abnormality, may not always be reliably detected by this test.
- Multiple gestation pregnancies may call for additional zygosity analysis to identify whether twins are identical or fraternal.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
This test detects chromosomal conditions rather than values that can be modified by lifestyle. However, the following general wellness steps support a healthy pregnancy alongside genetic testing:
- Attend all scheduled prenatal appointments and follow-up genetic counselling sessions as advised.
- Discuss your results fully with your doctor or genetic counsellor before any decisions are made.
- Consider any additional tests, such as karyotyping or chromosomal microarray, if your doctor recommends them.
Lupin Diagnostics QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test Price
The QFPCR with MCC test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹2,250. This test requires a visit to a Lupin Diagnostics centre; home collection is not available due to the specialised nature of the foetal sample collection procedure.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 2250 |
| CHENNAI | 2250 |
| HYDERABAD | 2250 |
| KOLKATA | 2250 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 2250 |
| PUNE | 2250 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
The QFPCR with MCC test online booking process at Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:
- 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.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The QFPCR (single probe) with MCC test provides results within days by testing specific chromosomes (13, 18, 21, X and Y). Full karyotyping examines all chromosomes but typically takes two to three weeks. QFPCR is used when a rapid result is needed, while karyotyping may follow for a complete chromosomal picture.
Maternal cells present in a foetal sample can lead to misdiagnosis. The MCC component confirms that the DNA being analysed belongs only to the foetus. Without this check, contamination could produce inaccurate chromosomal results and affect clinical decisions.
Studies report a detection rate of approximately 98.6% for aneuploidies of chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y. The QFPCR with MCC test is considered a reliable and rapid method for prenatal aneuploidy detection in high-risk pregnancies.
Results from Lupin Diagnostics are delivered within 3 days of the laboratory receiving your sample. You will receive your report digitally via email or WhatsApp.
Two samples are required: a foetal sample collected via chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis and a separate maternal blood sample. Both are needed to complete the QFPCR with MCC test procedure accurately.
If significant contamination is found, the results may be considered unreliable. Your doctor may recommend repeat sample collection or an alternative testing approach. The MCC check exists specifically to catch this issue before a result is reported.
No. This test is typically recommended for pregnancies identified as high risk through screening tests, ultrasound findings, advanced maternal age (35 years or older) or a personal or family history of chromosomal disorders. Your doctor will advise whether this test is appropriate for you.
You will need a valid doctor's referral, a completed Form-G, your detailed clinical history including previous test results and family history, and a working mobile number and full address. Without these, the laboratory may not be able to process your sample.
QFPCR (Single Probe) with MCC Test: Booking, Price, and Results
