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Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein screening for neural tube defects

Report of a combined study in Germany and short overview on screening in populations with low birth prevalence of neural tube defects

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Summary

The basis of maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-screening for neural tube defects is discussed. A report is given of a large scale screening study in the Federal Republic of Germany combining the experiences in Giessen and Hannover on over 50,000 pregnant women, about evently distributed among both centers. Published and known forthcoming data from other low incidence populations, particularly of European countries, are reviewed briefly. The conclusion is reached that general screening could effectively be instituted and in the final result should also be cost-beneficial.

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  1. Institute of Human Genetics of Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Schlangenzahl 14, D-6300, Giessen, Federal Republic of Germany

    Walter Fuhrmann

  2. Frauenklinik der Freien Universität Berlin, Hindenburg-Damm 30, 1000, Berlin 45

    Hans K. Weitzel

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Fuhrmann, W., Weitzel, H.K. Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein screening for neural tube defects. Hum Genet 69, 47–61 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00295529

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