Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by a developing fetus and used as a tumor marker in adults. AFP levels are high in fetuses and pregnant women, but low in adults and children.
Other names for AFP include alpha-1-fetoprotein, alpha-fetoglobulin, or alpha fetal protein.
What is AFP used for?
- Fetal development: AFP levels are used to screen for neural tube defects and aneuploidies.
- Cancer: AFP is used to screen for and monitor liver cancer, germ cell tumors, and other cancers.
- Liver disorders: AFP levels can indicate liver diseases, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
How is AFP measured?
- An AFP blood test is a quick and painless blood draw that measures the amount of AFP in the blood.
- The test is usually performed between 16 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
- The test is also known as a maternal serum screening or the triple marker test.
When might AFP levels be abnormal?
- Abnormal AFP levels can indicate problems like neural tube defects, liver diseases, or certain cancers.
- However, other conditions can increase AFP levels, so the test cannot be used by itself to diagnose cancer.
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