Possible connection between elevated serum α-fetoprotein and placental necrosis during pregnancy: A case report and review of literature

World J Clin Cases. 2018 Nov 6;6(13):675-678. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v6.i13.675.

Abstract

Placenta previa is the main cause of bleeding throughout pregnancy, and it is associated with serious complications, such as infection, that lead to a poor prognosis. Gynecological sonography is recommended as the first-line examination technique for the surveillance and determination of vaginal bleeding and for early intervention. We report the case of a patient with gradually expanded hypoechoic lesion and extremely high serum α-fetoprotein level during her third trimester, and discuss their potential relationship in evaluating the progression of placental necrosis.

Keywords: Gynecological sonography; Intermittent bleeding; Necrosis; Placenta previa; Serum α-fetoprotein.

Publication types

  • Case Reports