[Umbilical cord AFP values in twins (author's transl)].

The concentration of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the umbilical cord in twins was determined via radioimmunological analysis and compared with the values obtained in single births. Since a close correlation exists between AFP content and gestation age, this method can be used to estimate maturity. The mean concentration of AFP was significantly higher in the umbilical blood of fraturnal twins than in that of identical twins. Genetic factors could play a role here.