title: Correlation of abnormal second trimester maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) levels and adverse pregnancy outcome.
abstract: This study investigated the relationship between abnormal second trimester MSAFP levels and adverse pregnancy outcome. The findings revealed an association between low birth weight, prematurity and antepartum haemorrhage with abnormal unexplained high levels of second trimester MSAFP levels. However, macrosomia and increased gestational age at delivery were reported in relation to unexplained low levels of MSAFP in the second trimester. The positive predictive values for this test were poor (9-12%), that would question the use of this test to formulate a treatment plan. As the negative predictive values were high (96%), this test might be used to reassure women about their pregnancy.
authors.affiliation: University Hospital of Wales, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, UK. milindusha@hotmail.com
authors.forename: T S U
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Kiran
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bethel
authors.forename: P S
authors.initials: PS
authors.lastname: Bhal
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D011262:Pregnancy Trimester, Second / Q000097:blood*; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins