Haddow J E, Kloza E M, Knight G J, Smith D E
Clin Chem. 1981 Jan;27(1):133-4.
Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein concentrations are influenced by maternal weight during the second trimester. Heavier pregnant women have lower median values, apparently as a result of a diluting effect of larger blood volume. This phenomenon is of clinical interest because alpha-fetoprotein concentration in a pregnant woman's serum is one of the factors considered in assessing risk of poor outcome. A revision of the reference interval for alpha-fetoprotein to take body weight into account might improve its use as a diagnostic aid, especially in heavier women.
