Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Fetal Hydrocephalus
Author Information
Author(s): Szajkowski Terrence P, Chodirker Bernard N, MacDonald Karen M, Evans Jane A
Primary Institution: University of Manitoba
Hypothesis
What is the distribution of maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels associated with fetal hydrocephalus?
Conclusion
MSAFP screening has low sensitivity for fetal hydrocephalus, but elevated levels indicate significant risk for additional malformations.
Supporting Evidence
- Mean MSAFP levels in 70 cases of fetal hydrocephalus were significantly higher than those of the general population.
- Only 10% of cases had MSAFP levels ≥ 2.3 multiples of the median, the cut-off used in Manitoba.
- Six of the seven cases with elevated MSAFP levels had additional major and/or minor malformations.
Takeaway
This study looked at blood tests from pregnant women to see if high levels of a certain protein could help find babies with brain swelling. It found that while high levels are not common in these cases, they can mean the baby might have other problems.
Methodology
The study reviewed cases of fetal hydrocephalus and compared maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels with a control group using Independent Samples T-tests.
Limitations
The study excluded cases with neural tube defects and multiple gestations, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Women who underwent routine maternal serum screening in Manitoba between 1985 and 2001.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.029
Statistical Significance
p=0.029
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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