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Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP, α-fetoprotein; also sometimes called alpha-1-fetoprotein, alpha-fetoglobulin, or alpha fetal protein) is a protein [5] [6] that in humans is encoded by the AFP gene. [ 7 ] [ 8 ] The AFP gene is located on the q arm of chromosome 4 (4q13.3). [ 9 ]
AFP is a single polypeptide chain with a half-life of 4–5 days. The protein that is normally expressed in a fetus can also be expressed in mesodermal and endodermal tumors. AFP can have a lower concentration with fetal defects and is used as a marker for that. A low AFP in a pregnant person can indicate Down syndrome.
Elevated alpha-fetoprotein refers to a state where alpha-fetoprotein levels are outside of the reference range. There are two categories of AFP tests: tests performed on serum (blood plasma), and tests performed on amniotic fluid. Tests performed on serum are further categorized by the reason for performing the test: maternal serum, adult tumor ...
An elevated level of stress during pregnancy leads to notorious pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and mental health problems for the mother. Prolonged effects of chronic stressors such as discrimination, intimate partner violence, housing issues, and poverty lead to widespread maternal health issues and adverse ...
Genitourinary Changes in Pregnancy. Progesterone causes many changes to the genitourinary system. A pregnant woman may experience an increase in the size of the kidneys and ureter due to the increase blood volume and vasculature. Later in pregnancy, the woman might develop physiological hydronephrosis and hydroureter, which are normal. [33]
Hypoproteinemia is a condition where there is an abnormally low level of protein in the blood. There are several causes that all result in edema once serum protein levels fall below a certain threshold.
Histopathology of placenta with increased syncytial knotting of chorionic villi, with two knots pointed out. The following characteristics of placentas have been said to be associated with placental insufficiency, however all of them occur in normal healthy placentas and full term healthy births, so none of them can be used to accurately diagnose placental insufficiency: [citation needed]
Although described as "morning sickness," pregnant women can experience this nausea any time of day or night. The exact cause of morning sickness remains unknown. Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is typically mild and self-limited, resolving on its own by the 14th week of pregnancy. Other causes should also be ruled out when considering treatment.