One of the tests that fall under the screening tests of prenatal care is the Alpha-fetoprotein test or AFP test. This is basically a blood test that is done to measure the quantity of alpha-fetoprotein in the mother’s blood. This test is also referred to as maternal serum AFP or MSAFP.

Now, what is Alpha-fetoprotein? It is a type of protein that is secreted by the liver of the fetus and is contained in the fluid that surrounds the growing fetus. It passes through the placenta and finally mixes with the mother’s blood.

The test is carried out between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. A sample of the mother’s blood is taken and sent to the laboratory for the purpose of analysis. Results of the test are available within a period of 1–2 weeks.

AFP is usually test as a part of a two, three or four part screening test also knows as multiple marker screen. The other parameters that are tested along with AFP are:

§  hCG – human chorionic gonadotropin hormone

§  estriol

§  inhibin

The presence of high levels of AFP in the blood indicates the following:

§  Down syndrome

§  Chromosomal abnormalities

§  Neural tube defects

§  Presence of twins

§  Abnormality in the abdominal walls of the developing fetus

In case the results of the test are found to be abnormal, your doctor might recommend additional tests. In such cases, an ultrasound is conducted to take a look at the spine of the fetus and other parts of its body. Sometimes, an amniocentesis may be carried out for better diagnosis. This medical test is extremely useful in determining the tentative delivery date.

Generally, there are no risks that are associated with the AFP test. The ultrasound is also used to determine the date of delivery. However, if multiple marker screening is being used, there are chances of a false negative or a false positive result. The test may indicate a problem when there is no problem or might not indicate one in the presence of a possible risk.

The advantage of conducting this test is to see whether the baby is likely to be born with birth related defects. Additional tests maybe recommended under such cases.

Each and every test of this sort is designed to keep a close watch over your baby and ensure that you give birth to a healthy child.

Tags: , , , ,