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Amniotic fluid alpha-fetoprotein in fetal obstructive uropathy.
Pediatrics
|October 1, 1980
Summary
Elevated amniotic fluid alpha-fetoprotein can indicate congenital anomalies. This study reports a case of in utero urinary obstruction due to posterior urethral valves, successfully treated, with a discussion on the underlying mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Perinatology
- Pediatric Urology
Background:
- Amniotic fluid alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels are established markers for certain congenital anomalies.
- Elevated maternal serum AFP has been linked to various fetal abnormalities, necessitating further investigation.
Observation:
- A prenatal diagnosis of urinary obstruction was made in a fetus with elevated amniotic fluid AFP.
- The obstruction was identified as type I posterior urethral valves.
Findings:
- Fetal intervention via fulguration of the posterior urethral valves was successfully performed in utero.
- This case provides evidence for a link between obstructive uropathy and elevated amniotic fluid AFP.
Implications:
- Suggests a potential mechanism where fetal urinary obstruction contributes to increased amniotic fluid AFP.
- Highlights the importance of considering obstructive uropathy in fetuses with elevated AFP and polyhydramnios.
- Demonstrates the feasibility of prenatal surgical correction for posterior urethral valves.