Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) L3% and Total, Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tumor Marker, Serum
Use
This test is useful for distinguishing between hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic liver disease. It can also be used for monitoring individuals with hepatic cirrhosis for progression to hepatocellular carcinoma and for surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma development in individuals with a positive family history of hepatic cancer or specific ethnic and sex groups with chronic hepatitis B infection acquired early in life.
Special Instructions
The test must be performed using the specific method outlined (uTASWako i30 AFP-L3 kit) to obtain valid results for AFP-L3 percentages. It is not intended for use during pregnancy, as values may not be interpretable. Different assay methods can yield non-comparable results, so consistent methodology is critical.
Limitations
AFP testing may have reduced specificity since increased AFP levels can also occur in other conditions such as chronic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis. AFP alone should not be relied upon for hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis. AFP or AFP-L3 is not interpreted properly if the patient is pregnant. Additionally, some tumor cases do not produce AFP at all. Test interference may occur in the presence of human anti-animal antibodies, and results need careful clinical correlation.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 96451-0
- 1834-1
- 42332-7
- 69048-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 5 days |
| Frozen | 180 days |