AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein) Test

The Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) test measures the amount of alpha fetoprotein in your blood. AFP is a protein made by the liver as its cells grow and divide. While AFP levels are high in unborn babies, they drop very low after birth. Only trace amounts of AFP are present in healthy children and non-pregnant adults. Abnormal AFP levels during pregnancy may indicate a genetic disorder or birth defect. In non-pregnant individuals, AFP levels are mostly checked as a tumour marker (a substance that can indicate the presence of cancer). High AFP levels may suggest liver, ovarian, or testicular cancer. Thus, an AFP test can give you a clearer picture of potential health concerns, such as genetic disorders during pregnancy and some cancers.

Here are a few reasons why you should opt for an AFP test: Cancer Diagnosis Confirmation: The AFP test helps confirm or rule out liver, ovarian, or testicular cancer when combined with other exams and tests. Predict Cancer Behaviour: It can provide insight into cancer progression over time, aiding in treatment planning. Monitor Cancer Treatment: AFP levels often rise if cancer is growing and decrease when treatment is effective, helping track treatment progress. Check for Cancer Recurrence: Regular AFP tests can help detect cancer recurrence after cancer treatment is complete. Guide Treatment Decisions: In some cases, AFP levels may help guide treatment choices for certain cancers. Monitor Liver Conditions: If you have chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, AFP testing can help monitor your health, as these conditions increase liver cancer risk. AFP Test During Pregnancy is also necessary, especially with: Advanced Maternal Age: Pregnant individuals over 35 years may require AFP testing to assess foetal health. Family History of Birth Defects: If there is a family history of birth defects, the AFP test can help evaluate the risk. Diabetes During Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals with diabetes may be recommended to take the AFP test to check for potential complications.

Understanding your report

What your results can mean — always review them with your doctor:

Normal AFP test results are typically measured in IU/mL, with a biological reference range of less than 5.5 IU/mL for healthy adults. AFP values above this may indicate certain health concerns, as follows: High AFP Levels: High AFP levels are seen with liver injuries or non-cancerous liver diseases. Elevated AFP may also suggest liver, ovarian, or testicular cancer, and rarely, other cancers, such as lymphoma or lung cancer. Your doctor will consider your medical history and other test results before reaching a diagnosis. Normal AFP Levels: Normal AFP levels indicate a lower likelihood of cancers that increase AFP levels. However, some cancer patients may still have normal AFP, so it doesn’t rule out cancer entirely. During Cancer Treatment: AFP levels are monitored throughout treatment to track progress: Rising AFP levels may indicate that treatment is not effective. Decreasing AFP levels suggest that the treatment is working. Stable AFP levels may mean the disease is not improving or worsening. After Cancer Treatment: High AFP results could indicate that the cancer is still present or has recurred. During Pregnancy: It can help identify genetic conditions like Down syndrome or Turner syndrome. The test may help confirm or adjust the expected due date. It can indicate if you are carrying multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, or more). The test can detect neural tube defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Test results can vary based on factors like your age, gender, health history, and the laboratory that conducts the test. AFP levels may be high in pregnant adults; however, a high level doesn't always indicate a problem. It's important to discuss your test results with your doctor to understand what they mean for you.