A nurse is explaining the Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP) to a pregnant client.

What does a high level of AFP (>2.5 MoM) potentially indicate?

An AFP test is a blood test that measures the amount of AFP present in blood.It’s usually part of a screening test for genetic problems and birth defects in the second trimester of pregnancy.

However, it has some limitations, such as:

• Choice A is wrong because the AFP test can detect neural tube defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly.

• Choice B is wrong because the AFP test does not pose any risk of preterm labor.It is a simple blood test that does not affect the pregnancy.

• Choice D is wrong because the AFP test is not very expensive and is usually covered by insurance.

The main limitation of the AFP test is that it is not very accurate and can have false-positive or false-negative results.

A false-positive result means that the test suggests a problem when there is none.

A false-negative result means that the test misses a problem that exists.Therefore, if the AFP test shows an abnormal result, it needs to be confirmed by more invasive procedures, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS).These procedures involve taking samples of fluid or tissue from the womb and can have some risks, such as infection, bleeding, or miscarriage.

A high level of AFP (>2.5 MoM) potentially indicates that the unborn baby has a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida.

This is a condition where the spinal cord does not develop properly and can cause serious complications.

Choice B.Chromosomal abnormality is wrong because a high level of AFP is not associated with chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome.In fact, a low level of AFP may indicate this type of defect.

Choice C.Maternal weight-related factors is wrong because maternal weight does not affect the level of AFP in the blood.However, other factors such as gestational age, multiple pregnancies, and maternal diabetes can influence the AFP level.

Choice D.Fetal demise is wrong because a high level of AFP does not indicate fetal demise or death.A very low or undetectable level of AFP may suggest this possibility.

Normal ranges for AFP vary depending on the stage of pregnancy and the laboratory that performs the test.Generally, the normal range for AFP in the second trimester is between 10 and 150 ng/mL.