Acetylcholinesterase and Fetal Hemoglobin, Amniotic Fluid
Also known as: ACETYL AF
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.
Special Instructions
It is recommended to include amniotic fluid AFP and MoM results, if available, when submitting the specimen. Ensure to use ARUP standard transport tubes for specimen transfer. High-resolution ultrasound is recommended to further investigate potential neural tube defects and fetal anomalies when test results are positive.
Limitations
The test is a Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory and has not been cleared or approved by the US FDA. Therefore, its use and performance characteristics are determined by ARUP Laboratories. Interpretation should rely on a comprehensive evaluation of clinical findings, and the presence of acetylcholinesterase might be due to fetal blood contamination, which can affect the diagnostic outcome.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 30106-9
- 28067-7
- 48767-8
Result Turnaround Time
3-11 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Amniotic Fluid
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Storage Instructions
Ambient.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 months |
| Refrigerated | 4 months |
| Frozen | 3 years |