What is a common factor associated with the onset of elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels in a pregnant patient?

Elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels during pregnancy are often linked to various factors that can suggest certain conditions or complications. Multiple gestations, such as twins or higher-order multiples, frequently lead to increased levels of AFP. This increase is attributed to the greater total production of the protein as a result of multiple fetal placentas contributing to higher concentrations in the maternal serum.

In singleton pregnancies, AFP levels are typically lower than in multiple gestations, and while other factors like maternal obesity and advanced maternal age can be associated with various risks during pregnancy, they don’t typically cause significant elevations in AFP. Instead, elevations primarily indicate the presence of multiple fetuses or other specific pathological conditions, making it a critical aspect of prenatal monitoring.