|
|
|
|
|
|
AFP Tumor Markers
Also known as: AFP, Total AFP, AFP-L3% Formal name: Alpha-fetoprotein, Alpha-fetoprotein-L3% Related tests: CEA, hCG, Tumor markers
Were you looking for AFP Maternal, also known as Triple Screen, ordered during pregnancy?
|
|
|
|
      |
|
|
Common Questions
|
| |
1. What are the risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma?
2. If my AFP is normal/abnormal, do I need other tests?
1. What are the risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma?
This cancer usually occurs in people who have chronic scarring of the liver, called cirrhosis. Most commonly, this is caused by chronic infection from one of two viruses: hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Alcohol abuse also increases the risk of developing cirrhosis. Some inherited diseases, especially a disorder called hemochromatosis (in which the body absorbs too much iron), can cause cirrhosis and later hepatocellular carcinoma.
2. If my AFP is normal/abnormal, do I need other tests?
If you have chronic liver infection or damage, a high AFP could simply be due to the disease itself. If your AFP suddenly rises, or if it is very elevated, your doctor will usually ask for a study to look at your liver, such as an ultrasound exam, a CT scan, or an MRI scan. These scans can often spot liver cancers if they are present.
|
|
|
This article was last reviewed on
November 18, 2005.
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
