Maternal serum screening for prenatal diagnosis of some fetal genetic disorders

Abstract

Based on elevated MSAFP levels, 85% to 90% of NTDs can be detected. Using a combination of the three parameters, MSAFP, hCG and UE3, 55% to 60% of fetal Down's syndrome can be detected. Future strategies for Down's syndrome screening may include the use of new markers such as dimeric inhibin-A and urinary ?-core fragment of hCG, as well as first-trimester screening, particularly with PAPP-A and free ?-hCG.