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Prenatal screening for open neural tube defects.
Jacob A Canick1, Leonard H Kellner, Allan T Bombard
1Division of Prenatal and Special Testing, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Women and Infants Hospital, Brown Medical School, 101 Dudley Street, Providence, RI 02905-2401, USA. jcanick@wihri.org
Clinics in Laboratory Medicine
|July 10, 2003
Summary
Prenatal screening for birth defects uses alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) tests. This article reviews AFP
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Clinical Chemistry
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Prenatal screening for birth defects began in the 1970s.
- Discovery of elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in maternal serum and amniotic fluid indicated fetal open neural tube defects.
- AFP testing is now standard in routine obstetric care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the use of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in prenatal screening for open neural tube defects.
- To examine the role of the laboratory in AFP screening.
- To explore laboratory interactions with practicing obstetricians regarding AFP testing.
Main Methods:
- Review of the historical development and current application of AFP screening.
- Discussion of laboratory procedures and quality control for AFP testing.
- Analysis of communication and collaboration between laboratories and obstetricians.
Main Results:
- AFP screening has significantly advanced prenatal diagnostics for open neural tube defects.
- Effective laboratory practices are crucial for accurate AFP test results.
- Strong communication between labs and clinicians improves patient care and screening efficacy.
Conclusions:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing remains a vital component of prenatal screening for open neural tube defects.
- The laboratory plays a critical role in the success of AFP screening programs.
- Optimizing the interaction between laboratories and obstetricians enhances the overall effectiveness of prenatal care.