Changes in circulating alphafetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotrophin following chorionic villus sampling.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is rapidly becoming established as a routine procedure for first-trimester fetal diagnosis. The technique can result in fetomaternal haemorrhage and this might sensitize Rhesus-negative mothers and on occasion lead to spontaneous abortion. Serial sampling indicates that there is a rapid rise in alphafetoprotein (AFP) levels following CVS; however, this is not reflected by raised levels at 16-18 weeks and does not influence the subsequent pregnancy outcome. Unlike AFP, alterations in hCG levels are small and variable. Anti-D prophylaxis for non-sensitized Rhesus negative mothers should be given after CVS and the procedure may be contra-indicated in patients who are already sensitized.
Knott
P D
PD
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University College, London, U.K.
Chan
B
B
Ward
R H
RH
Chard
T
T
Grudzinskas
J G
JG
Petrou
M
M
Modell
B
B
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin / Q000097:blood*; D002824:Chorionic Villi / Q000032:analysis*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D011863:Radioimmunoassay; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins / Q000032:analysis*
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins