Experience with Neural Tube Defect or AFP Test?
I'm 21 weeks pregnant and my doctor called me today with the results of my AFP (alpha fetaprotein) test and told me that they indicated my baby is positive for a neural tube defect (my AFP level was elevated). She also told me that there are alot of false positives with this test and the rate of false positives is 1 in 75. I have no history of neural tube defect in my family, I am 20 years old, my husband is 22 and has no history of this in his family, I was taking prenatal vitamins with folic acid for three months before I conceived, and my doctor did not notice any abnormalities in the baby at my 19 week scan. Does anyone have a similar experience or any information on neural tube defects or false positives with an AFP blood test in the second trimester that they can share? I'm really worried and I cannot get in to have a high definition ultrasound until next Wednesday. Any information would be highly appreciated!
September 13th, 2010 - 14:46
Sorry, I am not familiar with this but I did have a similar situation. I was 15wks when I went for my first ultrasound and the doctor noticed a cyst on my sons brain. He insisted I do an amniocentesis, which can cause birth defects or even kill the baby, I refused. My son is now four and he was and is a beautiful healthy boy! I will keep you in my prayers.
September 13th, 2010 - 14:46
i’m sorry i can only give you a link for info on this..i have three children and took the tests none of which came back abnormal..althought my oldest daughter had issues when she was young with scoliosis and at one point she went for screening for genetic testing ..they thought she had a connection with neural tube defect but didnt pursue any futher testing..she is normal and 21. Keep in mind that alot of times first tests come in odd because the babies not growing at the rate the charts say they should and then the retest comes back normal because they catch up…i wish you the best