External Maternal Monitoring Related

Review External Maternal Monitoring related questions and content

The primary reason for evaluating alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels in maternal serum is to determine whether the fetus has which condition?

  • A. Hemophilia
  • B. Sickle cell anemia
  • C. A neural tube defect
  • D. Abnormal lecithin-to-sphingomyelin ratio
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: An open neural tube allows a high level of AFP to seep into the amniotic fluid and enter maternal serum, indicating a neural tube defect.