This prenatal screening test combines the reading of the alpha-fetoprotein test with two other blood substances. The results are obtained from a blood sample from the mother at 16 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. This test can detect the majority of neural-tube defects and two out of three babies with Down syndrome. An abnormal reading may prompt further testing such as ultrasound or amniocentesis.
This prenatal screening test combines the reading of the
alpha-fetoprotein test with two other blood substances. The results
are obtained from a blood sample from the mother at 16 to 20 weeks
of pregnancy. This test can detect the majority...
More
Brigham and Women's Hospital answered:This prenatal screening test combines the reading of the alpha-fetoprotein test with two other blood substances. The results are obtained from a blood sample from the mother at 16 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. This test can detect the majority of neural-tube defects and two out of three babies with Down syndrome. An abnormal reading may prompt further testing such as ultrasound or amniocentesis.This prenatal screening test combines the reading of the alpha-fetoprotein test with two other blood substances. The results are obtained from a blood sample from the mother at 16 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. This test can detect the majority... More