Inpatient Obstetric Nurse (NCC) Practice Exam

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by the fetal liver, and its levels are typically measured in the maternal serum during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester. The measurement of AFP is particularly useful in screening for potential neural tube defects (NTDs). Elevated levels of AFP in the mother's blood can indicate an increased risk of NTDs, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. These defects occur when the neural tube, which forms the baby's brain and spinal cord, does not close completely. The high levels of AFP suggest that there may be a breach in this protective tube, allowing the protein to leak into the amniotic fluid and subsequently into the maternal circulation. While AFP levels can also have implications for other conditions such as chromosomal abnormalities or fetal growth issues, its most direct and significant association is with neural tube defects. Screening for these defects is an essential part of prenatal care and can lead to further investigations and earlier interventions if necessary.