Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker Test Cost & Procedure

Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Marker Testicular, liver and ovarian cancers can all be detected and diagnosed using the tumour marker alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). During the first three months of development, it serves as the major protein. The optimal amount of AFP is present in adults at extremely low levels and declines significantly by the time a person reaches the age of one. The most common types of AFP are nonseminomatous germ cell malignancies and liver cancer. Your doctor might recommend this test if they think you have liver cancer, testicular cancer, brain cancer, mediastinum cancer, or blood cancer.

Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Marker Test Preparation:

• Your arm will be used to draw the blood. Therefore, it is best to wear anything with short sleeves that can be readily rolled up.
• Before the AFP test, you don't need to fast or change your diet unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so.
• You may eat and drink as usual. Make careful to let your doctor know if you are taking any specific medications.
• Always adhere to the lab's detailed instructions.

Alpha-fetoprotein tumour marker test applications:

• Increased AFP levels may be a sign of malignancy, most frequent liver cancer, ovarian cancer, or testicular germ cell tumour.
• But not all liver, ovarian, or testicular cancers generate a sizable amount of AFP.
• This is only illustrative. Several benign or malignant disorders can be associated with increased levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
• If the AFP number doesn't return to normal by around a month after surgery, there may still be some tumour present.
• Elevation of AFP following remission is suggestive of tumour recurrence, but tumours that produced AFP initially may do so without seeing an increase in AFP.

Alpha-Fetoprotein Tumor Marker Test Method:

• A small amount of blood, like one to two tablespoons, would be taken directly from you.
• Your upper arm will be wrapped in an elastic band to stop the blood flow and expose the veins.
• A needle will be inserted into the apparent vein.
• The needle will have a tube attached to it so that blood may be drawn from it and transported to a vessel bearing your name.
• As the needle is removed, a gauze pad or cotton ball will be placed over the needle site.
• Apply warm pressure to the needle site if the skin swells.