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Alpha Feto protein blood test
Normal Reference Range
0 – 5 U/mL
Test Information
The liver and yolk sac of the foetus are the primary locations for AFP synthesis. It is produced into the foetal serum and peaks at around 13 weeks of pregnancy before gradually falling after that. Then, during pregnancy and in association with a number of malignant conditions, elevated serum AFP levels recur. Hepatocellular carcinoma and some types of trophoblastic malignancy frequently have increased AFP levels.
Clinical Indications
• Prognostic indication for advanced non-seminomatous germ cell testicular cancers (when combined with HCG).
• The identification and follow-up of patients with probable liver cancer (particularly those who are known to be Hepatitis C virus carriers)
• It has been discovered that serum AFP levels are high during pregnancy, in conditions such ataxia telangiectasia, hereditary tyrosinemia, teratocarcinoma, and benign hepatic illnesses like acute viral hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, and cirrhosis.
Sample Required
5mL serum sample tube is required for Alphafoetoprotein blood test
Min. sample volume
1.0mL
Special Instructions and Precautions
Not applicable
Time Limits For Retrospective Testing
5 days
Any factors affecting the test
Not applicable
Turnaround Time
6 hrs
Referral centre (if applicable)
Not applicable
Test Code
AFP