Alpha Fetoprotein, Serum (Tumor Marker)
Also known as: AFP TM
Use
Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) is a valuable marker for the surveillance and monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma and nonseminomatous testicular cancer patients. It is used in conjunction with clinical evaluation and other diagnostic procedures. Increased AFP concentrations can also be observed in patients with ataxia telangiectasia, hereditary tyrosinemia, primary hepatocellular carcinoma, teratocarcinoma, gastrointestinal tract cancers (with or without liver metastases), and benign hepatic conditions such as acute viral hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, and cirrhosis. However, AFP cannot be interpreted as absolute evidence of the presence or absence of malignant disease.
Special Instructions
This test is less specific than one which includes AFP-L3 isoform. Results obtained with different assay methods or kits cannot be used interchangeably. The test is performed using the Beckman Coulter Access DxI AFP method.
Limitations
The result cannot be interpreted as a tumor marker in pregnant females. Results from this test cannot be used interchangeably with those obtained from other assay methods or kits. It is crucial to use this test in conjunction with clinical evaluation and other diagnostic procedures for accurate management. The presence of increased AFP levels does not definitively indicate the presence or absence of malignant diseases, highlighting the need for comprehensive diagnostic assessments.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 53962-7
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Allow specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate from cells within 4 hours of collection. Transfer 1 mL serum to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma. Grossly hemolyzed specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |