What is Alpha-Fetoprotein and why is the AFP test done?
Alpha-Fetoprotein is a substance produced by the fetus in utero. AFP stops being produced once the baby is born. The AFP is excreted in the fetal urine which crosses into the mother’s blood stream. This is why AFP can be detected by a blood sample taken from the pregnant mother. High levels of AFP can indicate an increased chance of the fetus having a neural tube defect such as spina bifida. Another possibility with a high level of AFP can be a low level of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. An abnormally low AFP level can indicate an increased risk of Down syndrome. The AFP is rarely performed alone. AFP is usually part of a test called a “triple screen.” The purpose of the triple screen test is to use the results of all three blood tests to increase the accuracy of the results. There are practically no risks involved with having the test performed. A simple blood sample is obtained, generally from a vein in the arm. Bruising is normal and women who are taking blood thinners or hav
