AFP

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Why the test is performed: AFP is measured to diagnose or monitor fetal distress or fetal abnormalities, some liver disorders, and some cancers. This test has been used to determine the progress of therapy for hepatitis or liver disease. During pregnancy, this test, along with the examination of amniotic fluid (amniocentesis), can help detect fetal spinal bifida or other defects of the fetus' neural tube. AFP is a protein normally produced by the liver and yolk sac of a fetus, where it has an analogous function to albumin levels increase soon after birth; AFP probably has no normal function in adults. Normal values: Males or nonpregnant females: less than 300 ng/ml Note: ng/ml = nanograms per milliliter What abnormal results mean: Greater-than-normal levels of AFP may indicate: cancer in testes, ovaries, biliary (liver secretion) tract, stomach, or pancreas cirrhosis of the liver liver cancer recovery from hepatitis malignant teratoma During pregnancy, increased levels of AFP may indicate: fetal defects spina bifida anencephaly omphalocele tetralogy of Fallot duodenal atresia 's syndrome intrauterine death (usually results in a miscarriage) Additional conditions under which the test may be performed: testicular cancer Take the ordinary things of life, and make them your own. Do the impossible with a smile

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