Alpha-fetoprotein and acetylcholinesterase in twins discordant for neural tube defect

Prenat Diagn. 1989 Dec;9(12):831-7. doi: 10.1002/pd.1970091203.

Abstract

Twins concordant for elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and discordant for neural tube defect (NTD) and sex are reported. A literature review reveals instances of termination of twin pregnancies with one normal and one abnormal fetus, partly based on concordant high AFP and positive AChE (although discordant on ultrasound examination). The levels of AFP and AChE in twin pregnancies are probably a function of the number of layers of fetal membranes separating twin sacs; dichorionic, diamniotic membranes allow transfer of AFP; monochorionic, diamniotic membranes allow transfer of both AFP and AChE. Cautious interpretation of biochemical findings and reliance on high resolution ultrasonography are suggested.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acetylcholinesterase / analysis*
  • Diseases in Twins / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neural Tube Defects / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Diagnosis*
  • Twins, Dizygotic
  • Ultrasonography
  • alpha-Fetoproteins / analysis*

Substances

  • alpha-Fetoproteins
  • Acetylcholinesterase