Rapid determination of alpha-fetoprotein in amniotic fluid using an automated immunoturbidimetric technique.

A rapid and precise immunoturbidimetric assay for the measurement of alpha-fetoprotein in amniotic liquor has been developed. The method is an 'end-point' technique without blank correction since non-specific turbidity does not occur with amniotic liquor. The assay is able to distinguish 4 mg/l from zero and is unaffected by gross blood staining of the liquor. The protocol requires a duplicate analysis of the liquor to detect high levels of alpha-fetoprotein.