Alpha Feto protein

Test/Profile Name

Alpha Feto protein

Test/Profile Code

T000208

Clinical Usefullness

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is used as a tumor marker to help detect and diagnose cancers of the liver, testicles, and ovaries

Synonyms (Also knowns as)

AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein)

Alpha Fetoprotein

Tumor Marker (AFP), Serum

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Marker

Fetoprotein, Alpha

Tumor Marker, Alpha Fetoprotein, Serum

AFP Tumor Marker

Specimen Type and Minimal Volume

Serum 0.5ml:plain tube (Red)

Forms

Not Required

Test Equipment

Architect I 2000 SR

Test Method

Chemiluminescent micro particle immunoassay (CMIA)

Reference Range

0.8 - 8.78 ng/ml

Include Test

N/A

Reporting Time (Turn Around Time; TAT)

08hrs

Clinical Information

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a single polypeptide chain glycoprotein. Synthesis of AFP occurs primarily in the liver and yolk sac of the fetus. It is secreted in fetal serum, reaching a peak at approximately 13 weeks gestation, after which it rapidly declines until about 22 weeks gestation and then gradually declines until term. Transfer of AFP into maternal circulation is accomplished primarily through diffusion across the placenta. Maternal serum AFP levels rise from the normal nonpregnancy level of 0.20 ng/mL to about 250 ng/mL at 32 weeks gestation.

Related Disease/Condition

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Germ cell tumors
Ataxia telangiectasia

Related Test

Liver Profile
Maternal screening test
Amniocentesis
Pelvic ultrasonography