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Print CPT 82105; 82677; 84702; 86336
Synonyms AFP Tetra; Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tetra Profile;
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
Screening test for open neural tube defects (detects 80% open spina bifida, 90% anencephaly), Down syndrome (detects 75% to 80%), and trisomy 18 (detects 73%)
Special Instructions
Please Note: Ultrasound BPD (biparietal diameter) dating of pregnancy is preferred for optimal accuracy of risk calculations.
Test Includes
a-Fetoprotein, serum; dimeric inhibin A (DIA); human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); unconjugated estriol (uE3)
Methodology
Immunochemiluminometric assay (ICMA)
Specimen Requirements
Information on collection, storage, and volume
Specimen
Whole blood; serum
Volume
Serum: 2-3 mL (unhemolyzed). Whole Blood: 7 mL in SST or 10 ml in red-top tube; allow to clot; centrifuge (15 minutes at 1,000 g) to prevent hemolysis.
Container
Serum: AFP tube Whole Blood: Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube.
Storage Instructions
Maintain at room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis; gross lipemia; quantity not sufficient for analysis
Collection
Avoid hemolysis. Send complete specimen in the original tube. Do not pour off.