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.

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 evenly 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.