Gastroschisis Health Dictionary

  1. Health Encyclopedia
  2. Gastroschisis

Gastroschisis: From 1 Different Sources

n. a congenital defect in the abdominal wall, which during fetal development fails to close to the right of a normal umbilical cord. Bowel herniates through the defect and has no covering; free loops of bowel can be seen floating in the amniotic cavity on ultrasound. Treatment is surgical. Compare exomphalos.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Alpha-fetoprotein

(AFP) n. a protein that is formed in the liver and yolk sac of the fetus and is present in the fetal serum and secondarily in maternal blood. Maternal AFP is used as a marker in *prenatal screening tests, which can be performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. Levels are elevated in open *neural tube defects (e.g. spina bifida), open abdominal wall defects (e.g. *gastroschisis), fetal death, and multiple pregnancy. Levels of AFP are decreased in *Down’s syndrome. However, AFP levels are affected by the length of gestation and the mother’s weight, and these factors must be considered when interpreting the results. When levels are unexpectedly high or low, further investigations (for example detailed *ultrasonography) are indicated.

Alpha-fetoprotein is also produced by certain tumours, including malignant *teratomas and primary liver tumours (*hepatomas). See tumour marker.... alpha-fetoprotein

Exomphalos

(umbilical hernia) n. a congenital defect in which the abdominal wall fails to close during fetal development and bowel, covered by peritoneum, herniates through the umbilical cord. Unlike *gastroschisis, it is associated with other structural fetal abnormalities. It can be corrected by surgery.... exomphalos

Health encyclopedia icon Health Encyclopedia

Recent Searches