Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test, Serum

The AFP test measures the levels of alpha-fetoprotein in your blood. High AFP levels can signal liver damage, hepatitis, or liver cancer. In pregnant women, it may suggest potential issues with the developing baby.

This test is primarily done to:

• Screen for liver cancer
• Monitor effectiveness of liver cancer treatment
• Detect other cancers like testicular cancer
• Diagnose liver diseases or hepatitis
• Assess potential risks to a developing foetus during pregnancy

Recommendations for this test include:

• History of liver disease or hepatitis
• Monitoring liver cancer treatment
• Symptoms of testicular or liver cancer
• Pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies

Individuals with risk factors for liver cancer like heavy alcohol use

• Elevated levels may suggest liver issues, hepatitis, liver cancer, or testicular cancer.
• Abnormal results require further evaluation by your doctor.
• Not definitive of a specific condition; follow-up testing is necessary.

During the test:

• A blood sample will be drawn from your arm.
• Mild discomfort during needle insertion may occur.
• This is a quick and relatively painless procedure.
• No special preparation is needed.

Before the test:

• No fasting is required.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you're taking.
• Relax to prevent stress-related elevations in AFP levels.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor.

Consult your healthcare provider for specific requirements.

Tests ordered alongside AFP include:

• Liver function tests: Assesses overall liver health.
• Ultrasound imaging: Helps visualize liver abnormalities.
• CT scan: Provides detailed images for further evaluation.
• Hepatitis B and C tests: Identifies viral infections affecting the liver.

Serum AFP test or AFP blood test

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of primary liver cancer that arises from hepatocyte cells in the liver. It is often associated with underlying chronic liver disease such hepatitis B or C infection, alcoholic liver disease, or non-alcoholic fatty liver cirrhosis. Abnormal AFP levels may indicate advanced hepatocellular carcinoma and this test is augmented with other tests to confirm these findings.