Raised alpha-fetoprotein levels in amniotic fluid and maternal serum in a triplet pregnancy in which one fetus had an omphalocoele.

During the second pregnancy of a 31-year-old patient, who already had a child with hydrocephalus, the ultrasonic scan at 16 weeks gestation demonstrated the possiblity of triplets. Raised amniotic fluid and maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein concentrations were observed at 16 and 17 weeks gestation. The pregnancy was terminated at 17 weeks gestation and one of the fetuses had an extensive omphalocoele, radial aplasia and digital abnormalities.