Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason: Linea nigra is a dark vertical line that appears on the abdomen of some pregnant women. It is caused by increased melanin production and usually fades after delivery.
Choice B Reason: Pica is a condition in which a person has an abnormal desire to eat substances that are not food, such as ice, clay, dirt, or chalk. It is more common in pregnant women and may indicate a deficiency in iron or other nutrients.
Choice C Reason: Ballottement is a technique of palpating a floating structure by bouncing it gently and feeling it rebound. In obstetrics, it can be used to detect the presence of the fetus by feeling its head move when the cervix is tapped.
Choice D Reason: Quickening is the first perception of fetal movements by the pregnant woman. It usually occurs between 16 and 20 weeks of gestation.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because sickle-cell anemia is a genetic disorder that affects the shape and function of the red blood cells. It is not related to the AFP level, which is a protein produced by the fetal liver and yolk sac.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because cardiac defects are abnormalities in the structure or function of the heart. They are not related to the AFP level, which is a marker of neural tube defects and abdominal wall defects.
Choice C Reason: This is correct because Down syndrome is a chromosomal disorder that results from an extra copy of chromosome 21. It is associated with a decreased AFP level, as well as increased levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and unconjugated estriol (uE3).
Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because respiratory disorders are problems that affect the lungs and breathing. They are not related to the AFP level, which reflects the fetal development and integrity.
