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Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP)
Alpha-fetoprotein Test (AFP) ( 5 Questions)
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.