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Prenatal testing for maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein.

E J Schwager, B D Weiss

American Family Physician

|April 1, 1987

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Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) screening between 16-20 weeks detects neural tube defects and chromosomal anomalies. This cost-effective test is crucial for all pregnant women, requiring further evaluation if results are abnormal.

Area of Science:

Maternal-fetal medicine
Prenatal diagnostics
Biochemical screening

Background:

Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a key biomarker in prenatal screening.
Accurate dating of gestation is essential for interpreting AFP levels.
Neural tube defects and chromosomal anomalies are significant pregnancy complications.

Purpose of the Study:

To emphasize the importance of universal maternal serum AFP screening.
To outline the diagnostic pathways for abnormal AFP levels.
To highlight the clinical and medicolegal necessity of offering AFP testing.

Main Methods:

Measurement of maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels.
Gestational dating at 16 to 20 weeks.
Follow-up diagnostic procedures including ultrasonography and amniocentesis.

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Main Results:

Elevated AFP levels indicate a need for ultrasonography and potentially amniocentesis to rule out neural tube defects.
Low AFP levels suggest possible chromosomal anomalies, necessitating amniocentesis for confirmation.
AFP screening is identified as a cost-effective measure.

Conclusions:

Maternal serum AFP screening is a vital component of prenatal care.
Abnormal AFP levels require prompt and appropriate diagnostic follow-up.
Offering AFP screening to all pregnant women is medically and legally imperative.