Use

This test is used following an abnormal amniotic fluid alpha fetoprotein (AFP) result to evaluate the possibility of a fetal open neural tube defect. The presence of acetylcholinesterase and fetal hemoglobin in amniotic fluid may indicate contamination of the sample with fetal blood, which is associated with a higher risk of neural tube defects. However, a negative result typically indicates a low risk of such defects. The test aids in prenatal diagnosis and helps in medical management by providing additional information alongside clinical findings and high-resolution ultrasound imaging to detect fetal anomalies.