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Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker

Overview
What is Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker?
The alpha-fetoprotein tumor marker is also known as AFP or total AFP. This test is done to help diagnose and monitor therapy for certain cancers of the liver, testicles, or ovaries.
Why is Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker done?
The alpha-fetoprotein tumor marker is done:
In case cancers of the liver, testicles, or ovaries are suspected
At intervals during and after treatment for any of these cancers
In the case of cancer-predisposing diseases such as chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis
To monitor the patients for cancer recurrence
What does Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker Measure?
The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), tumour marker test measures the levels of AFP in the blood. AFP is a protein which is produced mainly by the liver in a fetus (developing baby) and the portion of a developing embryo. The levels of AFP are elevated at the time of the baby's birth and then the levels decline.
In case of liver damage and certain cancers, the AFP concentrations are raised.
The production of AFP occurs at the time of regeneration of liver cells. In case of chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, AFP may be raised chronically. Certain tumors produce very high concentrations of AFP. Thus, AFP test is a useful tumor marker test.
Increased levels of AFP can be seen in hepatocellular carcinoma (type of liver cancer), hepatoblastoma (liver cancer occurring in infants), cancer of the testicles or ovaries.
Interpreting Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker results
Interpretations
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein), Tumor marker, Serum < 10.00 ng/mL
Reference range may vary from lab to lab*
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker
Frequently Asked Questions about Alpha Feto Protein, Tumour Marker

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