Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Marker Test (AFP Tumor Marker)

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker Test

Tumour is a mass of cells or tissues that grow and divide out of proportion or do not die at the right time. Whenever there is a tumor, our body starts making substances known as tumor markers either by the cancer cells or by the normal cells of the body in response to the cancer. Alpha fetoprotein is one of them. Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)is usually primarily made by fetal liver and yolk sac. Its production decreases by age 1 and is found in normal adults at very low levels. An Alpha Fetoprotein tumor marker test is a blood test that measures the levels of AFP in adults which is raised in many conditions.

When is the Alpha fetoprotein tumor marker test prescribed?

This test is prescribed to check for alpha-fetoprotein or AFP tumor marker in the blood. A doctor may recommend this test when he suspects

• Cirrhosis or chronic active hepatitis
• Liver cancer
• Germ cell tumors >f the testicles or ovaries (rare)
• Genetic disorders
• When imaging tests de>ect possible tumors.
• Monitor cancer recurrence
• Follow up for chronic hepatiti> or liver cirrhosis
• Follow-up for response to cancer therapy

What are the components of the Alpha fetoprotein tumor marker test?

It can be performed alone or in combination with

• Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
• Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
• Liver function test

What is a standard AFP tumor marker test (AFP ) range?

AFP is measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

• The normal value for adults is 0 ng/mL to 40 ng/mL
• A value greater than 400 ng/ml could indicate liver tumors.

A higher value of alpha-fetoprotein tumor marker than normal levels of AFP may indicate cancers, including Hodgkin's disease, lymphoma, and renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer).

How is an Alpha fetoprotein tumor marker test done?

The test is done with a blood sample and does not cause any risk to the patient. But the values may be affected if the patient has hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver or is pregnant.

Note:

• Not every liver, ovarian, or testicular cancer will produce significant amounts of AFP.
• A decreased level indicates the response to treatment.
• If AFP levels after cancer treatment do not decrease, tumor tissue may still be present.
• An increase in the value of the AFP tumor marker test while taking treatment indicates a poor response to the treatment.