Twins
Feeding
Tests
Nutrition and fitness
1st Trimester
2nd Trimester
3rd Trimester
Financial/benefits
Complications
Concerns
Labour/delivery
Newborn
Loss
Maternal serum-alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP)
Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein substance produced by the liver of the foetus. A small amount of this protein is excreted from the kidney of the foetus into the amniotic fluid, and then passes from the amniotic fluid into the mother's bloodstream. The concentration of AFP in the mother's blood rises gradually into late pregnancy and can be easily measured by a blood test called the maternal-serum-alpha-fetoprotein test, or MSAFP. So, remember that there is always a certain amount in the mother’s blood in normal pregnancies.
When is Testing Done?
The MSAFP is a routine screening blood test if certain foetal disorders are suspected. It is generally offered to women between the fifteenth and twentieth week of pregnancy, and is most accurate when performed between 15 and 18 weeks’ gestation.
What Does This Test Screen For?
Abnormal MSAFP levels are associated with genetic conditions, birth defects, retardation and late-pregnancy complications. There are also some diseases that appear because of a certain chromosome abnormality. These, like Down’s Syndrome, for instance usually occur in women over the age of 35. (They can, however, also occur in women under the age of 35). MSAFP is typically offered to pregnant women within the vulnerable age group or with a relevant family medical history. Certain defects, on the other hand, which cause abnormalities within the developing brain/spinal cord, can occur in previously unaffected families.
The AFP Test
Blood can be drawn for this test at the same time as other prenatal tests. Your GP or midwife will talk with you about the reasons for this test, and the procedure that will be suggested should there be abnormal findings, and seek your consent prior to testing. A woman has the right to refuse this test if she chooses. If the test reveals abnormal values, a follow-up with an ultrasound and amniocentesis may be recommended for a more definitive diagnosis. Women who have opted for amniocentesis do not need the MSAFP because the AFP test is included in amniocentesis screening.
1 | 2 | 3 | next
printer friendly
send to a friend
Delicious
Digg
reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
Horoscopes| Message Boards | Quizzes | Newsletters | Join
iVillage Ltd is a UK company registered in England & Wales (3837269) at 80-110 New Oxford Street, London WC1 1HB
