Maternal serum transformed alpha-fetoprotein levels in women with intrauterine growth retardation

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate maternal serum transformed alpha-fetoprotein (t-AFP) levels in women with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).

Methods: 60 pregnant women in two groups were studied: 30 with IUGR and 30 healthy pregnant women as a control group. t-AFP concentrations were determined by ELISA assay.

Results: Maternal serum t-AFP levels were higher in women with IUGR than in the control group: 15.39 (10.81-24.01) ng/ml vs. 8.66 (6.22-13.45) ng/ml (p = 0.003). t-AFP levels were even higher in those with fetal hemodynamic redistribution 21.08 (16.02-40.85) ng/ml than in those without 12.15 (10.48-17.45) ng/ml (p = 0.03).

Conclusions: Maternal serum t-AFP is increased in women with IUGR and this elevation is marked in those with fetal hemodynamic redistribution.