Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) refers to a blood test that is used to screen for fetal chromosomal abnormalities, anatomical anomalies, and neural tube defects. This term is also sometimes used outside of the birth industry, but it may have a different meaning. In general, MSAFP is a measure of the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels in a mother’s blood. AFP is a protein that is produced by the baby’s liver and it can be measured in the mother’s blood. High levels of AFP may be a sign that the baby has a neural tube defect, such as anencephaly or spina bifida. Low levels of AFP may be a sign that the baby has a genetic disorder such as Down syndrome.
This test is done during the second trimester of pregnancy. The results of the test can help healthcare providers decide if more tests or treatments are needed.
Other Related Tests
There are other tests related to MSAFP. These tests include the amniotic fluid alpha-fetoprotein (AFAFP) test and the human chorionic gonadotropin hCG test. The AFAFP test is done during the third trimester of pregnancy and it measures the levels of AFP in the amniotic fluid. The hCG test is done during the first trimester of pregnancy and it measures the levels of hCG in the mother’s blood. An hCG is a hormone that is produced by the placenta and it can be measured in the mother’s blood. High levels of hCG may be a sign that the baby has a birth defect, such as Down syndrome. Low levels of hCG may be a sign that the baby is not developing normally.
These tests can help healthcare providers decide if more tests or treatments are needed. However, the results of these tests should not be used to diagnose fetal abnormalities. Only a fetal ultrasound can diagnose a fetal abnormality.
This image shows how often the term ‘Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP)’ is used in relation to other, similar birth terms:
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