Alpha Fetoprotein

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP), a protein produced in a fetus's liver that is passed into the mother's blood, where it can be sampled and tested, generally about 15-19 weeks into a pregnancy. Abnormally high AFP levels are often associated with neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, and with other ailments such as kidney problems, while low levels can be linked with Down syndrome, so testing is done where family history warrants it. But the maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test (MSAFP) is only a general screen; abnormal AFP levels do not necessarily signal abnormalities, but rather the advisability of more precise genetic screening procedures, such as amniocentesis and ultrasound. A high AFP level may also appear when a pregnant woman is carrying twins. The MSAFP test has been found somewhat unreliable in dealing with low AFP levels.

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This information was taken from, AOL keyword: Moms Online