Alfal-Fetoproteien in neonatale geelsug

Date
1978-08
Authors
Malan Christina
Donald, P. R.
Odendaal , H. J.
Shanley , B. C.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
HMPG
Abstract
The relationship between the concentration of alphal-fetoprotein (AFP) in cord blood and neonatal jaundice has been examined in 259 neonates. Cord blood AFP varies inversely with gestational age, as does the incidence of severe jaundice. Among babies born at term a higher mean AFP concentration in cord blood was found in the group which subsequently developed marked hyperbilirubinaemia. On average, the full-term babies with a cord blood AFP level above 130 mg/l developed more pronounced jaundice than the rest. We conclude that cord blood AFP concentrations reflect the maturity of the liver in both premature and full-term infants. It is a better criterion than the estimation of gestational period by physical examination of the baby.
Description
Article
The original publication is available at http://www.samj.org.za
Keywords
Alpha-fetoprotein -- Testing -- Research, Liver function test -- Newborn infants, Newborn infants -- Diseases -- Treatment -- Research, Jaundice, Neonatal -- Treatment -- Research, Newborn infants -- Diseases, Jaundice, Neonatal
Citation
Malan, C., Donald, P. R., Odendaal, H. J., Shanley, B. C. 1978. Alfal-fetoproteien in neonatale geelsug. South African Medical Journal, 54: 281-283