Abstract
The maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein level should be measured in all pregnant women at 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. Elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels require evaluation by ultrasonography and, sometimes, amniocentesis to detect neural tube defects. Low alpha-fetoprotein levels may be associated with chromosomal anomalies and should be evaluated with amniocentesis. Alpha-fetoprotein testing is cost-effective, and medicolegal liability makes it imperative to offer this screening test to all pregnant women.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 169-174 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | American family physician |
| Volume | 35 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| State | Published - 1987 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Family Practice