Question

List all the potential causes of *elevates Maternal serum AFP* (alphafetoprotein).

Answer 1

Potential causes of elevated Maternal serum AFP (alphafetoprotein) include tumor markers, pregnancy, liver damage, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and rubella virus infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

Elevated Maternal serum AFP (alphafetoprotein) can be caused by various factors:

1. Tumor markers: AFP is a tumor marker that can be elevated in certain cancers, such as liver cancer and testicular cancer. When AFP levels are high, further investigations can be conducted to diagnose and monitor these cancers.
2. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the maternal serum AFP levels increase. Elevated AFP levels can be seen in conditions like neural tube defects and Down syndrome.
3. Liver damage: Acute liver damage can also cause an increase in AFP levels. However, elevated AFP is not specific to the liver as it is also present in other tissues.
4. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to elevated levels of AFP in the mother.
5. Infection by rubella virus: Rubella virus infection during pregnancy can result in elevated AFP levels and various birth defects.