Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Body Fluid Test

AFP Body Fluid Test Overview

The AFP body fluids test is used to determine the level of level of AFP in the blood. Alpha Fetoprotein is generally produced by developing fetuses and it is found in their blood and the amniotic fluid that surrounds them in the womb. However, in adults, low levels of AFP are produced by the liver and the gastrointestinal tract. The Alpha Fetoprotein Body Fluids test measures the level of AFP in an adult’s body by testing their blood. In most cases, an AFP body fluids test is used to diagnose certain types of cancers and liver disorders in adults.

When Is AFP Body Fluid Test Prescribed?

The AFP Body Fluids test is prescribed most commonly to pregnant women to help them as a part of regular prenatal screening. Generally this test is requested between the 15th and 20th weeks of gestation. However, it is also used to diagnose some other types of health conditions listed below.

• Liver Disease: The AFP body fluid test is able to assess the severity and progression of liver conditions like liver cirrhosis. This test can give a good look into liver function or the extent of liver damage if its present.
• Pregnancy Screening: This is the most common type of AFP body fluid test and it is used to determine whether the fetus has any birth defects or genetic disorders or not. This test is mostly used to rule out two conditions in particularly namely, neural tube defects and down syndrome.
• Cancer Diagnosis: The AFP body fluid test can be used to diagnose a type of liver cancer known as hepatocellular carcinoma. This test is especially used for diagnosis when patients have known risk factors such as liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis. This test is also used in the diagnosing process of other types of cancer such as testicular cancer.

Components of AFP Body Fluid Test

The normal AFP body fluid levels for adults should be below 10 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). It is important to understand that elevated AFP body fluid levels can indicate certain medical conditions, they are not a definitive diagnosis. These tests combined with the right medical context of your medical history and specific health concerns are required to understand your issues better.

Procedure & Prerequisites

The test is performed just like a regular blood test where blood is drawn from the veins in your arms. There are no specific prerequisites for alpha fetoprotein body fluids test.