Risks associated with an elevated amniotic fluid alpha-fetoprotein level

Am J Med Genet. 1991 Apr 1;39(1):64-7. doi: 10.1002/ajmg.1320390114.

Abstract

Two and two-tenths percent of 85,000 consecutive amniotic fluid (AF) samples had alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels greater than or equal to 2.0 MoM. Half measured 2.0-2.4 MoM, and 93% had a normal outcome. Sixty-seven percent of those with higher levels had abnormalities. A positive acetylcholinesterase (AChE) increased the risk from 67% for levels between 2.0 and 2.4 MoM to 99% at greater than or equal to 5.0 MoMs. After a normal ultrasound and chromosome studies, the risk for a fetal abnormality was 1% for AF AFP measuring 2.0-2.4 MoM and 3% for higher levels.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Acetylcholinesterase / analysis
  • Amniocentesis
  • Amniotic Fluid / chemistry*
  • Congenital Abnormalities / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • alpha-Fetoproteins / analysis*

Substances

  • alpha-Fetoproteins
  • Acetylcholinesterase