WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for March, 1997: Re: AFP TEST Positive for NTD

Re: AFP TEST Positive for NTD

From: J. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Fri, 14 Mar 1997 21:24:11 -0600 (CST)

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In reply to: Pam: "AFP TEST Positive for NTD"

At Thu, 13 Mar 1997, Pam wrote: >
>My good friend had her afp come bash as risk for NTD. She has since had
>a sonogram(which showed nothing). She went today for the Amniocenteses,
>but decided not to have it because her Placenta is in the front.
>Therefore the Amnio might have caused blood, and increase the chance for
>a miscarriage. Does anyone have any information of the AFP tests with
>relation to NTD. Do you need her actual results numbers?
=================== I assume you mean the maternal serum AFP (MS-AFP) was elevated. The normal and abnormal ranges for MS-AFP overlap so the results only mean that there is an increased risk of a problem. A sonogram which confirms the gestational age of the pregnancy and excludes structural abnormalities is good. However, the gold standard for AFP is the AFP level in the amniotic fluid.

For an elevated MS-AFP I obtain an indepth sonographic evaluation of the fetus, correct for gestational age if necessary and repeat the MS-AFP. If the MS-AFP remains elevated, I recommend aminocentesis with genetic analysis and AFP. I use a small diameter needle and frequently go through the placenta with sonogram guidance. (I avoid some areas of the placenta.) If the AFP is elevated and there are no structural abnomalaties, the fetus may be at risk for other problems. She should discuss this with her physician.

*Note: Opinions expressed here are for educational purpose only. This information is not intended to supplant the need for you to consult with your physician prior to choosing diagnostic or therapeutic options.

--
J. Hellriegel, Jr., MD, PhD

Next message: anonymous@obgyn.net: "Re: Help: serious medical problems after trauma of stillbirth -- Lupus?"
Previous message: cheryl: "Help: serious medical problems after trauma of stillbirth -- Lupus?"
In reply to: Pam: "AFP TEST Positive for NTD"

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