Alpha fetoprotein testing in pregnancy is used to screen for which condition?

Alpha fetoprotein testing in pregnancy is used to screen for which condition?

• A. Detect cardiovascular disorders.
• B. Screen for neural tube defects.
• C. Monitor placental functioning.
• D. Assess maternal pre-eclampsia.

Answer: (B)

Alpha fetoprotein screening is used to detect neural tube defects in the fetus, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. AFP is a protein made by the fetus (liver and yolk sac) that usually appears in the maternal blood in small amounts. If the neural tube doesn’t close properly, or if there are ventral wall defects, more AFP leaks into the amniotic fluid and maternal circulation, leading to higher AFP levels. When AFP is elevated, further ultrasound and/ or diagnostic testing are pursued. While very low AFP can be linked to chromosomal abnormalities or dating errors, the primary purpose of this test in pregnancy is to screen for neural tube defects.

Alpha fetoprotein screening is used to detect neural tube defects in the fetus, such as spina bifida and anencephaly. AFP is a protein made by the fetus (liver and yolk sac) that usually appears in the maternal blood in small amounts. If the neural tube doesn’t close properly, or if there are ventral wall defects, more AFP leaks into the amniotic fluid and maternal circulation, leading to higher AFP levels. When AFP is elevated, further ultrasound and/ or diagnostic testing are pursued. While very low AFP can be linked to chromosomal abnormalities or dating errors, the primary purpose of this test in pregnancy is to screen for neural tube defects.