Spina bifida laboratory findings

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mohamadmostafa Jahansouz M.D.[2]

Overview[edit | edit source]

There are no specific laboratory findings in the newborn associated with spina bifida. An elevated concentration of Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein may be predictive for contemporary detection of spina bifida. Screening for spina bifida by mother's blood's AFP [alpha‐fetoprotein] is recommended for all pregnant women with Triple Test. Triple test looks for three specific substances: AFP, hCG, and Estriol. Triple test is performed between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy preferably in the 16th -18th week.

Laboratory Findings[edit | edit source]

• There are no specific laboratory findings associated with spina bifida.

• An elevated concentration of Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein may be predictive for contemporary detection of spina bifida.^[1]

• Screening for spina bifida by mother's blood's AFP [alpha‐fetoprotein] is recommended for all pregnant women with Triple Test.^[2][3]
• Triple test looks for three specific substances: AFP, hCG, and Estriol.^[2][4]
• Triple test is performed between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy preferably in the 16th -18th week.^[2][4][3][5]
• All pregnant women should have triple test dureng pregnancy, but is is more important in pregnants with:^[2][4]
  • Family history of birth defects
  • Age of 35 years or older
  • Diabetes and use insulin
  • Viral infection during pregnancy
  • Exposure to high levels of radiation
• In patients with high level of AFP, use of ultrasound and amniocentesis may be useful to diagnose open neural tube defects including spina bifida.^[4][3][5]

References[edit | edit source]

Template:WH Template:WS