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An extremely important test during pregnancy, it checks for the possibility of Spina bifida, a condition in which there is a problem in the normal development of the spine and brain (neural tube). Using the alpha feto-protein test along with two other enzymes/hormones tests will also help to find babies that have Down's Syndrome. |
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Alpha feto-protein is produced
by the baby's (fetal) liver and is excreted through the placenta into the
mother's blood. The mother has a blood test, usually taken between 15 and
17 weeks, that is used to determine the amount of alpha feto-protein present
in the serum of her blood.
A high amount could indicate that the baby has a neural tube defect such
as spina bifida (open spine) or anencephaly (absence of the brain). The
incidence of spina bifida is 1-2/1000. If you have had one child with spina
bifida, your risk is five percent. The test can be positive five percent
of the time, which means that further investigation is needed.
If the value of the alpha feto-protein test is high, the first step is to repeat it. A sonogram to determine the accurate fetal age is done, since values are dependent on the age of the fetus. If the second value is high, a high resolution scan is done to look for neural tube defects. An amniocentesis may also be done to ascertain the exact amount of the substance in the amniotic fluid. If a defect is found, parents must make a decision on continuing the pregnancy based on the severity of the defect. If the value is low, it could be indicative of Trisomy 21 (A genetic condition in which there is an extra chromosome #21 and carries many physical defects as well as varying degrees of mental retardation. It is also called Down's Syndrome.). The single test will only find about 20% of Trisomy 21. A newer test, evaluating two other enzymes or hormones as well as alpha feto-protein, has a better detection rate. It can determine up to 70% of Down's Syndrome cases. An amniocentesis will be done to determine if the baby really does have a genetic abnormality. |
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| Excerpts from: The Family Pregnancy © 1995: MJ Bovo, The Family Pregnancy, Second Edition, currently in production, and Do You Have Any Questions? © 1995: MJ Bovo, are contained within this page. Reprints are not permitted under any circumstances. Please see Terms of Use for full expanation. Violations of the Copyright Code are taken seriously and appropriate action IS TAKEN AGAINST VIOLATERS. |
