Cord serum AFP and the immunological status of the mother: a lack of correlation.

Cord serum from 139 newborns was analysed for alpha-fetoprotein and immunoglobulin G and the results correlated with the obstetric records of the mothers. No significant correlation was found in comparing either alpha-fetoprotein or immunoglobulin G levels with the previous obstetric experiences of the mothers. A previously reported sex difference of alpha-fetoprotein levels at birth was not found in this study. These results are discussed in the light of the possible immunosuppressive effects of alpha-fetoprotein.