When explaining maternal alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) screening, what is the best way to describe its function?

The function of maternal alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) screening is primarily related to its ability to detect elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein in the maternal blood, which can be a marker for potential neural tube defects and certain other fetal conditions. In the case of neural tube defects, the fetal tissue that normally produces AFP may leak into the amniotic fluid and subsequently into the mother’s bloodstream, leading to increased levels of this protein.

Elevated AFP levels may indicate various developmental anomalies, with neural tube defects being one of the most significant conditions associated with this test. Therefore, when discussing the purpose of the AFP screening, the focus is on its role in identifying these elevated levels and the implications they may have for fetal health, making this understanding critical for maternal-fetal medicine.