Elevated Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein, Second-Trimester Oligohydramnios, and Pregnancy Outcome

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Abstract
Although the primary purpose of maternal serum .alpha.-fetoprotein (AFP) screening is to detect open neural tube defects, the technique is of value in the diagnosis of other fetal abnormalities. Six patients from the .alpha.-fetoprotein screening program, perinatal region IV, were found to have twice elevated maternal serum AFP levels associated with severe early 2nd-trimester oligohydramnios. Five of the fetuses had urinary tract abnormalities. The source of the elevated maternal serum AFP is not clear. Pregnancy prognosis appears poor. These cases should be thoroughly studied so that patients may be accurately informed of the recurrence risk.