Hepatocellular Carcinoma Risk Panel with GALAD Score, Serum
Use
This test assesses the risk for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease by using a GALAD score. The GALAD model score combines information on gender, age, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), AFP-L3, and des-gamma-carboxy prothrombin (DCP) with demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy for HCC compared to these markers used alone or in combination, and its performance has been reported to be superior to ultrasound for HCC detection.
Special Instructions
Sex and age are required for the calculation of the GALAD score. This test should not be performed on pregnant patients as alpha-fetoprotein levels are elevated during pregnancy. If not ordering electronically, complete and send either the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Test Request form (T728) or the Oncology Test Request form (T729) with the specimen.
Limitations
Serum markers used in this test may vary by method and are not fully specific for malignancy. Elevated marker levels can occur in conditions other than HCC, such as chronic liver disease or during pregnancy, which could lead to false positives. Results should be interpreted alongside clinical evaluation and imaging. Caution is advised, as method interference from heterophile antibodies may arise. This test is inappropriate for assessing patients who are pregnant.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 96452-8
- 1834-1
- 42332-7
- 69048-7
- 34444-0
- 96450-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Storage Instructions
Frozen preferred: 90 days. Refrigerated: 5 days.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis is cause for rejection. Gross lipemia and icterus are acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 5 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |