afp tumor marker Test, Normal Range, High Levels, Liver Cirrhosis/Cancer

Content:

• What is AFP Tumor Marker Test?
• Normal Range of AFP Tumor Marker
• High Levels of AFP Tumor Marker
• AFP Tumor Marker and Liver Cirrhosis
• AFP Tumor Marker and Liver Cancer

What is AFP Tumor Marker Test?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced primarily by the liver and yolk sac of a developing fetus. In adults, AFP levels are usually very low. The AFP tumor marker test is a blood test used to measure AFP levels in the bloodstream. This test is primarily used to help diagnose liver diseases, such as liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and cirrhosis, as well as certain types of testicular and ovarian cancers.

Doctors may recommend an AFP tumor marker test for individuals at high risk of liver cancer, such as those with chronic hepatitis B or C, or liver cirrhosis. The test can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatment for liver cancer and detect potential recurrence.

Normal Range of AFP Tumor Marker

The normal range of AFP in the blood varies slightly depending on the laboratory performing the test. However, in general, AFP levels are considered normal when they fall within the range of:

• Less than 10 ng/mL (nanograms per milliliter) in healthy adults.
• Higher levels may be seen in pregnant women, as AFP is naturally produced by the fetus.

Doctors interpret AFP levels in combination with other tests and the patient’s medical history. A mildly elevated AFP level does not necessarily indicate cancer, as it can be influenced by liver conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.

High Levels of AFP Tumor Marker

Elevated AFP levels in adults can indicate several medical conditions, including:

• Liver cancer (Hepatocellular carcinoma)
• Liver cirrhosis
• Chronic hepatitis B or C infection
• Germ cell tumors (testicular or ovarian cancer)

AFP levels above 500 ng/mL are strongly associated with liver cancer. However, not all cases of liver cancer result in high AFP levels. Additional imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI scans are typically required to confirm a diagnosis.

AFP Tumor Marker and Liver Cirrhosis

Liver cirrhosis is a condition characterized by long-term liver damage that leads to scarring and impaired liver function. Patients with cirrhosis often have mildly to moderately elevated AFP levels, even in the absence of cancer. The presence of increased AFP levels in cirrhotic patients may indicate a higher risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Regular AFP testing is recommended for individuals with cirrhosis to help detect liver cancer early. However, because AFP levels can be elevated due to cirrhosis alone, this test is used in conjunction with imaging tests and other biomarkers for a more accurate assessment.

AFP Tumor Marker and Liver Cancer

AFP is one of the most commonly used tumor markers for diagnosing and monitoring liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma). Patients diagnosed with liver cancer often have significantly high AFP levels, particularly in advanced stages. The test is also used to:

• Monitor treatment response after surgery or chemotherapy.
• Detect cancer recurrence in previously treated patients.
• Assist in early detection in high-risk individuals.

While AFP testing is useful, it is not a standalone diagnostic tool for liver cancer. Doctors often use it alongside imaging studies and liver function tests to confirm a diagnosis and assess disease progression.