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Centro de Investigaciones Regionales Dr. Hideyo Noguchi, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán

2003, Number 1

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Rev Biomed 2003; 14 (1)

Utility of the alpha-fetoprotein in the prenatal diagnosis of neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities

Salas-Chaves P, Rodríguez-Aguilar S, Cunningham-Lucas L, Castro-Volio I

Language: Spanish
References: 21
Page: 5-10
PDF size: 46.26 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Introduction. The present study focuses on the utility of AFP in prenatal diagnosis of 96 Costa Rican pregnant women.
Material and methods. In these women, genetic amniocentesis and AFP levels were done between the 15th and 25th week of gestation. There were two main reasons for referral: abnormal ultrasound assessment and advanced maternal age.
Results. The concentration values of AFP were expressed as multiples of the median, considering a value of 2.5 MoM as a normal superior limit and of 0.25 as the inferior limit. The confidence limits of the median were 562-1196 KU/l and the 2.5 MoM value was located between 1404-2989 KU/l. Four cases had AFP levels higher than the median: one case of Turner Syndrome, another case of encephalocele and two normal karyotypes. Four other cases had AFP levels lower than 0.25 MoM: a case of trisomy 21, a case of trisomy 18, a case of omphalocele and a normal karyotype.
Discussion. Prenatal diagnosis of fetal defects allowed genetic counseling as well as better obstetric management and pediatric care.


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