Afp (alpha-fetoprotein)

TheAlpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)test measures the level of AFP, a protein produced primarily by the liver of a developing fetus. AFP is normally found in the blood of pregnant women, but it can also be present in the blood of non-pregnant adults, especially if certain health conditions are present. Elevated AFP levels can be associated with liver diseases, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), and other conditions like germ cell tumors. This test is often used for cancer screening, monitoring the progress of liver disease, and as part of prenatal screening.

The AFP test is commonly used to screen for certain cancers, particularly liver cancer, and to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in people who have been diagnosed with such conditions. It’s also part of some prenatal screening tests to check for fetal development problems, such as neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities. Elevated AFP levels in pregnant women may indicate an increased risk for conditions like spina bifida or Down syndrome, though further tests are needed for confirmation.

In adults, the AFP test is most often used to monitor liver disease or detect liver cancer, especially in individuals with chronic liver conditions, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis B/C.

Individuals who may benefit from the AFP test include:

• Pregnant women as part of their prenatal screening, typically between 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy
• Individuals at higher risk for liver cancer, such as those with a history of chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis or hepatitis B/C)
• Patients being monitored for liver cancer or other liver diseases
• Individuals with unexplained abdominal symptoms or those at high risk for liver cancer
• People who have been diagnosed with germ cell tumors, as AFP levels may also be elevated in these conditions

The AFP test is useful for monitoring patients with liver disease or those at high risk for liver cancer, as an elevated level of AFP can suggest the presence of a tumor. However, not all liver cancers or liver diseases cause a rise in AFP, and elevated levels can also occur in other conditions, such as pregnancy, testicular cancer, or certain other cancers.

For pregnant women, the AFP test is often part of a series of screenings to assess the risk of birth defects in the developing fetus. While high levels of AFP may indicate potential issues, they do not confirm a diagnosis, and additional testing is usually needed.

The AFP test is typically ordered alongside other tests or imaging studies (such as ultrasound or CT scans) to give a more comprehensive understanding of your health. Elevated AFP levels may prompt your healthcare provider to investigate further, particularly for liver cancer, and lead to additional diagnostics or treatments.

• Alpha-Fetoprotein blood test
• AFP tumor marker test
• Serum AFP test