Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker, Serum
Use
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is used in the follow-up management of patients undergoing cancer therapy, especially for testicular and ovarian tumors and for hepatocellular carcinoma. It is often used in conjunction with human chorionic gonadotropin. Elevated AFP concentrations are found in 50% to 70% of patients with nonseminomatous testicular tumors and approximately 70% of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. This test is not recommended for cancer screening in the general population, detection of neural tube defects, or for patients with pure seminoma or dysgerminoma.
Special Instructions
This test is intended as a tumor marker and not for the detection of neural tube defects. For testing amniotic fluid specimens, order AFPA / Alpha-Fetoprotein, Amniotic Fluid. Complete and send Oncology Test Request form (T729) with the specimen if not ordering electronically.
Limitations
The assay should only be used as an adjunct in the diagnosis and monitoring of AFP-producing tumors. Higher values are found in newborns and pregnant women. In some immunoassays, unusually high analyte concentrations may cause a high dose 'hook' effect, leading to falsely low results. If results are inconsistent with clinical presentation, the laboratory should be notified for troubleshooting.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 53962-7
- 53962-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.6 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |