Transformed Alpha-Fetoprotein (t-AFP) Levels in Women with Threatened Preterm Labor

Abstract

Background/Aims: To evaluate maternal serum transformed α-fetoprotein (MSt-AFP) levels, a new molecular conformation of AFP was used in cases of threatened preterm labor (TPL). Methods: Prospective case-control study. Maternal serum levels of classical AFP and transformed AFP (t-AFP) were compared between 2 groups matched by gestational age: 25 women with TPL and 25 healthy pregnant women as controls. Results: There was no significant difference in classical maternal serum AFP (MSAFP) levels between the 2 groups. In contrast, MSt-AFP levels were significantly lower in cases of TPL than in the control group [7.64 (1.78–29.06) vs. 33.38 (13.80–190.50) ng/ml; p = 0.006]. Similarly, the t-AFP:AFP ratio was also decreased in the TPL group [0.04 (0.004–0.12) vs. 0.16 (0.05–0.80); p = 0.008]. There was no significant correlation between MSAFP and MSt-AFP levels. Conclusions: MSt-AFP levels are decreased in women with TPL.