Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) – Tumour Marker

What is AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is an albumin-like protein typically produced by the liver and yolk sac of a developing fetus whereas in adults it plays an important role as a marker in the screening of liver conditions and certain cancers although it has no normal function in adults. AFP is helpful in the development of the fetus.

AFP test is conducted to screen for any congenital anomalies including neural tube defects, fetal-bowel destruction, and Down syndrome in the developing fetus.

How is the Test Performed?

AFP test is performed by a simple withdrawal of blood, the test procedure is safe, straightforward, and simple.

Preparation

• Generally, there is no restriction for the test
• Pregnant women should follow specific timelines i.e. 15 to 20 weeks of gestation for optimal results.

Collection

• The process is minimally invasive.
• A phlebotomist draws blood through the process of venipuncture, drawing blood from the vein by a needle.
• Blood is drawn generally from the arm.

Laboratory Analysis

• The blood sample is analyzed using a chemiluminescence assay to detect the levels of AFP.

What are the symptoms that prompt this test?

Your doctor may suggest this test to check your pregnancy status, and your liver health or to monitor the diagnosis and treatment of

certain cancers.

Pregnant women

• History of congenital disorders
• Age 35 or above
• Have diabetes or other health problems

Non-pregnant Adults

Liver condition

• Jaundice
• Weakness
• Unexplained fatigue
• Weight loss without any known reason

Cancers

AFP is suggested for people having testicular, ovarian, or hepatocellular carcinoma.

• Sudden onset of vomiting and nausea
• Appearance of a lump in the testicles or abdomen
• Abdominal discomfort

What are Normal Ranges for This Test?

Normal values of the AFP test are mentioned below for pregnant and non-pregnant adults. Normal ranges vary according to age, sex, and the status of pregnancy.

Pregnant women (15 to 20 gestational weeks) – 10 to 150 ng/mL
Non-pregnant Adults – 0-10 ng/mL.
Newborns – levels are high at the time of birth and decrease gradually with time

** Above mentioned values are general guidelines only and may vary according to the laboratory method used and the overall health of the patient. **

What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?

Abnormal AFP levels are alarming and should never be neglected. Individuals might be affected by the following health conditions;

Pregnant Individuals

High levels of AFP

Elevated AFP levels are suggestive of;

• Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, or more)
• Neural birth defects like spina bifida and anencephaly
• Defects in the abdominal wall

Low levels of AFP

Decreased AFP levels indicate that the fetus has chromosomal abnormalities including;

• Down syndrome
• Edward’s syndrome

Non-Pregnant Individuals

High levels of AFP

Increased levels of AFP are an indication of;

• Various types of cancers including liver cancer, ovarian, and testicular cancer
• Liver inflammation
• Metastatic cancer in the liver.
• Hodgkin’s Disease
• lymphoma
• Renal cell carcinoma

Low levels of AFP

Decreased levels of AFP are not significant as AFP levels should be low in normal healthy adults