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1016. α-fetoprotein (AFP) - prenatal diagnostics
Important information
*For pregnant women at 14 -19 weeks of pregnancy inclusive.
Description
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein synthesized by the liver and gastrointestinal tract of the fetus. Its level in a pregnant woman's blood is a diagnostic marker for identifying the risk of congenital malformations, such as neural tube defects (anencephaly, spina bifida), anterior abdominal wall defects, and possible chromosomal abnormalities. AFP testing is often part of a triple or expanded biochemical screening during the second trimester. The test is recommended for all pregnant women between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation to promptly detect abnormalities and determine further pregnancy management.
When and who needs the test?
Pregnant women:
- During the second trimester of pregnancy (14 weeks + 0 days – 19 weeks + 6 days), even with normal first-trimester screening results, to rule out congenital malformations.
As part of prenatal diagnosis, to detect:
- neural tube defects (anencephaly, spina bifida), central nervous system anomalies, anterior abdominal wall defects (omphalocele, gastroschisis), esophageal and urinary tract atresia, and chromosomal abnormalities (trisomies, particularly trisomies 21).
As a standalone test or as part of triple screening in the second trimester.
Biological material
- Venous blood
Preparing for a blood test
In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules:
- an important condition for laboratory tests is to take blood on an empty stomach;
- 6-12 hours before the test, you should avoid eating, drinking alcohol, smoking, and limit physical activity. Drinking...
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