Alpha Fetoprotein, Body Fluid
Also known as: AFP FL
Use
The Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) test is utilized to measure the level of AFP in body fluid, which may include pericardial, ascites/peritoneal, or pleural fluid. AFP is a protein that is typically produced by the liver and yolk sac of a fetus, and its measurement can provide important diagnostic information. This test aids in the evaluation of the source of fluid accumulation and is relevant in the diagnosis of liver diseases, certain types of cancer, and other conditions associated with elevated AFP levels. However, the AFP assay value should not be interpreted as direct evidence for the presence or absence of malignant disease.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Results obtained with different assay methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably. The assay has been developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories but has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. While the test is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory for clinical purposes, it should not be solely used to establish the presence or absence of malignant disease due to its limitations in specificity and potential variability across different assay methods.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
Alpha Fetoprotein
Protein
LOINC Codes
- 31208-2 - Specimen source
- 11207-8 - AFP Fld-mCnc
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge to remove cellular material. Transfer 1 mL body fluid to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated
Causes for Rejection
Specimen types other than those listed. Specimens too viscous to be aspirated by instrument.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 year |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant