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Order Code LAB1991 Alpha-Fetoprotein, Amniotic Fluid

Additional Codes

Mayo Test Code: AFPA

Reporting Name

Alpha Fetoprotein, AF

Useful For

Screening for open neural tube defects or other fetal abnormalities

 

Follow-up testing for patients with elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein results or in conjunction with cytogenetic testing

Reflex Tests

Test ID Reporting Name Available Separately Always Performed
ACHE_ Acetylcholinesterase, AF Yes No

Testing Algorithm

If alpha-fetoprotein is positive, then acetylcholinesterase will be performed at an additional charge.

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Specimen Type

Amniotic Fld


Necessary Information


The following information is required:

1. Estimated due date by ultrasound

2. Collection date

3. Gestational age must be between 13 and 24 weeks; 16 to 18 weeks preferred.

 

If not ordering electronically, provide information on Second Trimester Maternal Screening Alpha-Fetoprotein / Quad Screen Patient Information (T595) and send with specimen.



Specimen Required


Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)

Container/Tube: Plain, plastic, screw-top tube

Specimen Volume: 0.75 mL

Collection Instructions: Do not centrifuge.


Specimen Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time Special Container
Amniotic Fld Refrigerated (preferred) 7 days
  Ambient  7 days

Reference Values

< 2.0 multiples of median (MoM)

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Friday

CPT Code Information

82106

82013 (if appropriate)

Method Description

The Access AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) assay is a 2-site immunoenzymatic sandwich assay. A sample is added to a reaction vessel with mouse monoclonal anti-AFP alkaline phosphatase conjugate and paramagnetic particles coated with a second mouse monoclonal anti-AFP antibody. The AFP in the sample binds to the immobilized monoclonal anti-AFP on the solid phase while, at the same time, the monoclonal anti-AFP-alkaline phosphatase conjugate reacts with different antigenic sites on the sample AFP. After incubation in a reaction vessel, materials bound to the solid phase are held in a magnetic field while unbound materials are washed away. The chemiluminescent substrate Lumi-Phos530 is added to the reaction vessel and light generated by the reaction is measured by a luminometer. The light production is directly proportional to the amount of AFP in the sample. The amount of analyte in the sample is determined by means of a multipoint calibration curve.(Package insert: Access AFP. Beckman Coulter Inc; 12/2021)

Reject Due To

All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.

Method Name

AFPA: Immunoenzymatic Assay

ACHE_: Polyacrylamide Electrophoresis