Tumor Marker Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)

About This Test

The Tumor Marker Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) Test is a specialized blood test used to measure the levels of AFP in the body, an important protein normally produc... Read more

The Tumor Marker Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) Test is a specialized blood test used to measure the levels of AFP in the body, an important protein normally produced during fetal development by the liver and yolk sac. In healthy adults, AFP is typically present at very low concentrations. However, a significant rise in AFP levels may indicate certain types of cancer, most notably liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), and germ cell tumors of the ovaries or testicles. This test is a key tool for cancer diagnosis, monitoring response to treatment, and checking for cancer recurrence after therapy. Doctors may recommend the AFP test if a patient shows symptoms of liver dysfunction, has a family history of liver disease, or requires surveillance during and after cancer treatment. While elevated AFP levels can also occur in non-cancerous liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis, consistently high or rising AFP levels warrant thorough investigation. The test is minimally invasive, requiring only a blood sample. Used alongside imaging and other tumor markers, the AFP test enables early detection and improved management of cancers, while also guiding personalized treatment strategies for patients at increased risk.

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