Elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels in patients with subchorionic hematoma
1Yeditepe University Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul, Turkey. bkumbak@yahoo.com
Summary
Subchorionic hematoma in pregnancy can complicate screening tests. Elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels may occur, potentially leading to unnecessary anxiety for expectant parents.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Prenatal Diagnostics
Background:
- Subchorionic hematoma (SCH) is a recognized complication in pregnancy.
- Its association with pregnancy outcomes and diagnostic test interpretation requires further understanding.
Observation:
- Two cases of pregnancies conceived via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) presented with SCH.
- Both cases exhibited elevated mid-trimester maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) levels.
Findings:
- One pregnancy resulted in miscarriage at 16 weeks' gestation.
- The other pregnancy concluded with the delivery of a healthy infant via cesarean section.
- The presence of SCH may interfere with the accurate interpretation of the triple test.
Implications:
- Elevated MSAFP in the context of SCH may cause undue parental anxiety.
- Consideration should be given to withholding the triple test in pregnancies with diagnosed SCH to prevent unnecessary distress.
- Further research is warranted to clarify the impact of SCH on various prenatal screening markers.
