Specimen Requirements

Collection Instructions

For manual orders use "Maternal Serum Screen Requisition".

The Penta Screen test in pregnant women should be performed between 14.0 and 22.9 weeks gestational age, although the optimal period is 15.0-16.9 weeks. This time frame allows sufficient opportunity for further diagnostic studies if the initial Penta Screen test results are abnormal. Specimens submitted before 14.0 weeks or after 22.9 weeks gestation cannot be properly evaluated for open neural tube defects, Down syndrome or Trisomy 18.
The "Maternal Serum Screen Requisition" designed to obtain patient data and the patient's informed consent must be utilized when ordering the Penta Screen test. Because the Penta Screen test results are influenced by certain patient characteristics, the following data must be provided with the specimen in order to permit accurate interpretation of results: date of collection, patient’s (maternal) date of birth, patient’s estimated date of delivery, patient’s weight, patient’s race, patient’s diabetic status (is patient insulin-dependent prior to pregnancy), number of fetuses, and whether this is a repeat sample.

Preferred Specimen(s)

One Red top tube - 4 mL serum

Minimum Volume

1.5 mL

Specimen Stability

Room temperature: 7 days
Refrigerated: 7 days
Frozen: 28 days