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Synonyms AFP, Amniotic Fluid; Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Amniotic Fluid; Amniotic Fluid AFP;
Test Details
Turnaround Time
2 - 5 days Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Use
Analysis of mid-trimester amniotic fluid for detection of open neural tube defects and ventral wall defects
Special Instructions
Include the gestational age by ultrasound and/or last menstrual period (LMP) on the request form on the date of draw of the sample. The patient's gestational age must be at least 12 weeks for interpretation of a-fetoprotein. Note that AChE false-positive and false-negative results are more frequent at gestational ages less than 13 weeks. Optimal gestational age is 14 to 18 weeks.
Test Includes
Measurement of amniotic fluid AFP. Samples with AFP values ‚â•2.0 MoM will reflex to detection of acetylcholinesterase and fetal hemoglobin.
Methodology
Immunochemiluminometric assay (ICMA)
Additional Information
AFAFP analysis is used to screen for fetal open neural tube defects and abdominal wall defects. Please note: AChE will be reflexively performed and billed when AFAFP is elevated and/or gestational age is out of range of normative values. AFAFP results are reported together with the chromosome analysis unless chromosome analysis is abnormal.
Specimen Requirements
Information on collection, storage, and volume
Specimen
Amniotic fluid
Volume
1 mL
Container
Small AFP tube
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen not amniotic fluid; gross contamination of amniotic fluid with maternal or fetal blood; quantity not sufficient for analysis
Collection
Avoid contamination of amniotic fluid with maternal or fetal blood. As little as one drop of fetal blood can cause false-positive results during assay of amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid should be collected by the attending physician.