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Alpha fetoprotein

Definition

AFP is a protein normally produced by the liver and yolk sac of a fetus. AFP levels decrease soon after birth. AFP probably has no normal function in adults.

A test can be done to measure the amount of AFP in your blood.

Alternative Names

Fetal alpha globulin; AFP

How the test is performed

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.

Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm.

Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, a sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.

How to prepare for the test

There is no special preparation.

How the test will feel

When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.

Why the test is performed

AFP is measured to:

• Diagnose or monitor fetal distress or problems with a fetus during pregnancy
• Diagnose some liver disorders
• Screen for and monitor some cancers.

During pregnancy, this AFP test can be done along with the examination of amniotic fluid (amniocentesis) to help detect fetal spina bifida or other birth defects.

Normal Values

The normal values in males or nonpregnant females is generally less than 40 micrograms/liter.

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What abnormal results mean

Greater-than-normal levels of AFP may indicate:

• Cancer in testes, ovaries, biliary (liver secretion) tract, stomach, or pancreas
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Liver cancer
• Malignant teratoma
• Recovery from hepatitis

During pregnancy, increased levels of AFP may indicate:

• Birth defects, including:
  • Spina bifida
  • Anencephaly
  • Omphalocele
  • Tetralogy of Fallot
  • Duodenal atresia
  • Turner syndrome
• Intrauterine death (usually results in a miscarriage)

What the risks are

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling light-headed
• Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)

Review Date:10/15/2007
Reviewed By:Frank A. Greco, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Biophysical Laboratory, The Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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