Alfafetoprotein during pregnancy. AFP test

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is an embryonic protein that is reproduced by the liver and the fetal organs of the fetus, which is usually present in the blood and amniotic fluid of pregnant women. High or low levels of alpha-phosphate protein may be associated with certain congenital malformations, such as Edwards syndrome, Down's syndrome, anencephaly, splitting of the spine, etc. A test-AFP will help to identify possible deviations in fetal development.

What is a test-AFP?

During the period from 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, many pregnant women are recommended to perform invasive perinatal diagnostics, which often causes them a shock. One of the most gentle methods that does not require internal penetration is the AFP test, which determines the alpha-fetoprotein during pregnancy in the mother's blood. Blood from the veins of the mother is taken and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The result, which usually becomes known after 1-2 weeks, is compared with the mother's age and ethnicity in order to assess the likelihood of potential genetic disorders.

The most accurate indicators of this test is from 16 to 18 weeks. Due to the fact that alfa-fetoprotein during pregnancy, its concentration level changes, for more reliable results of the survey, the exact date of conception is needed. However, it must be taken into account that the results of testing are not a diagnosis, but only signal that further diagnosis is needed to detect congenital anomalies in the fetus.

Who is recommended test-AFP?

Of course, it is desirable that all pregnant women conduct a similar examination. However, mandatory alfa-fetoprotein during pregnancy should be determined for women who:

• Have a family history of birth defects;
• Over 35 years;
• Took various drugs or drugs during pregnancy;
• Suffer from diabetes.

If the alfa-fetoprotein is increased, this may indicate that the developing fetus has a neural tube defect, for example, a spina bifida or anencephaly, anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract, and other congenital malformations. A high level of alfa-fetoprotein can also suggest congenital defects of the esophagus. However, the most common cause of elevated AFP levels is inaccurate dating of pregnancy.

If the alfa-fetoprotein is underestimated in pregnancy and abnormal levels of hCG and estriol are present, this may indicate that the developing fetus may have developmental delay, trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome), or other type of chromosomal abnormality.

Results of AFP testing

It is important to remember that the AFP test is not a diagnostic test, it only notes that the health of the fetus is under threat. If an abnormal level of alfa-fetoprotein is detected, additional testing is required to accurately diagnose it. A more conservative approach involves conducting a second AFP test or 3D ultrasound. If repeated testing confirms that the alpha-fetoprotein during pregnancy (the AFP rate is calculated depending on the gestation period) is overestimated or underestimated, more invasive procedures are prescribed, for example, amniocentesis.

Despite the fact that alfa-fetoprotein testing is not performed for all pregnant women, in some cases it is necessary. Moreover, in addition to discomfort when taking blood, there are no risks and side effects associated with its conduct. This is a normal test, which does not involve internal penetration, and therefore does not pose a danger to the mother or child. If the test is not offered, the woman can insist on carrying it out herself (if, of course, she thinks that it can be useful for her and her child) to make sure of the normal course of pregnancy.