Sonography of placental abnormalities and oligohydramnios in women with elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels: comparison with control subjects

Abstract

twins, or lack of follow-up were excluded.Overall, 27 (36%) of 76 patients with elevated MS-AFP levels had placental or amniotic fluid abnormalities compared with only three (3%) of 87 control subjects. Significant differences (p < .01) were noted in the frequency of penplacental hemorrhage (9% vs 0%), intraplacental sonolucencies greater than or equal to 1.5 cm in diameter (18% vs 3%) and moderate or severe oligohydramnios (17% vs 0%). More patients with elevated MS-AFP levels had placenta previa (4%) or placental thickness greater than or equal to 3.5 cm (12%) than did those In the control group (1% and 5%, respectively), although these differences did not reach statistical significance. Seven (26%) of the 27 patients had more than one abnormality.We conclude that placental and/or amniotic fluid abnormalities are frequently shown on sonograms in women who are examined because of elevated MS-AFP levels.

Antenatal screening for circumvallate placenta

“…[4][5][6][7][8][9] Some investigators have observed that placental thickness is not diagnostic of any particular condition but can contribute to the management of high-risk pregnancies such as placental abruption, oligohydramnios, and neonatal intensive care unit admission. [11][12][13] These conditions have been observed to be associated with the presence of circumvallate placenta. [1][2][3] Thus, my results may support the previous observations of the sonographically thick placenta as a predictor of the adverse perinatal outcomes 11-13 associated with circumvallate placenta.…”

Association of maternal serum α-fetoprotein with persistent placenta previa

“…An association between elevated MSAFP and placental abnormalities has been demonstrated previously. Examples include increased incidence of placental sonolucencies and hemorrhage 6,7,9 . Two groups have also found an association between MSAFP elevation and placenta accreta 13,14 .…”

Midtrimester triple test levels in women with severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome

“…Unexplained elevated levels of MSAFP have been associated with thrombotic and inflammatory vascular lesions observed postpartum (18), as well as macroscopic placental abnormalities such as periplacental hemorrhage and increased placental thickness (19).…”