ALPHA-FETOPROTEIN, Maternal Serum (087-3750, 087-3744, 087-0041)

Screening test for neural tube defects (anencephaly, spina bifida) and Downs Syndrome of the fetus in pregnant women between 14 and 21 weeks gestation. For use as a tumor marker, see Alpha-Fetoprotein, serum.

 AFP-MS1

Immunoenzymatic

Clinical Chemistry

Routine: 48 hours. Samples delivered to the lab by 0900 on Tuesdays and Thursdays are complete by 1700 on the same day.

Collect: Routine venipuncture. When screening for neural tube defect and Downs Syndrome, a 'Patient Information Form for AFP Testing,' which includes age, race, weight, insulin dependence, and gestation, must be completed.

Specimen Preparation: Blood should be drawn before amniocentesis

Storage/Transport: Keep samples refrigerated until delivered to the laboratory.

Stability:

Causes for Rejection: Hemolysis, improperly labeled specimen, and QNS specimen

If applicable, state clinical information that is required to be provided with specimen.

By report (Reports may vary based on instrumentation, patient age and gender)

82105, 84702, 82677  Limited Coverage Test NCD)

When ordering tests for which Medicare or Medicaid reimbursement will be sought, physicians should only order tests that are medically necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of the patient.  Components of the organ or disease panels may be ordered individually.  The diagnostic information must substantiate all tests ordered and must be in the form of an ICD-9 code or its verbal equivalent.

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