Question

Why are serum or amniotic AFP levels done prenatally?

a) To assess maternal health
b) To detect neural tube defects
c) To monitor fetal lung development
d) To predict labor onset

Answer 1

Serum or amniotic AFP levels are measured prenatally to detect neural tube defects in the developing fetus, where high AFP levels can indicate issues with the development of the brain and spinal cord.

Step-by-step explanation:

Serum or amniotic alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels are measured prenatally primarily to detect neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. AFP is a protein that is produced by the fetal liver and is present in the fluid surrounding the fetus (amniotic fluid) and also crosses into the maternal bloodstream. High levels of AFP can indicate that the baby has a neural tube defect. The neural tube is the precursor to the central nervous system, which comprises the brain and spinal cord. Therefore, the integrity of the neural tube is crucial for proper neurological development.

Folate, a B vitamin, is essential for the healthy development of the neural tube, and its deficiency can result in neural tube defects. Monitoring AFP levels, alongside routine prenatal care, helps reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and ensure the healthy development of the fetus.