Alpha Fetoprotein Overview

RightHealthRIGHTHEALTH

  • Summary
  • Definition
  • Other Names
  • How the Test is Performed
  • How the Test will Feel
  • How to Prepare for the Test
  • Normal Results
  • Risks
  • What Abnormal Results Mean
  • Why the Test is Performed
Reviewed By Frank A. Greco, M.D.

Definition

AFP is a protein normally produced by the liver and yolk sac of a fetus. AFP levels decrease soon after birth. AFP probably has no normal function in adults.

A test can be done to measure the amount of AFP in your blood.


Other Names

Fetal alpha globulin; AFP


How the Test is Performed

Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.

Keep reading...

Encyclopedia: Alpha Fetoprotein

Wikipedia.orgWIKIPEDIA.ORG

Alpha-fetoprotein is a molecule produced in the developing embryo and fetus. In humans, AFP levels decrease gradually after birth, reaching adult levels by 8 to 12 months. Normal adult AFP levels are low, but detectable; however, AFP has no known function in normal adults. In normal fetuses, AFP binds the hormone estradiol. AFP is measured in pregnant women, using maternal blood or amniotic fluid, as a screening test for a...
More at Wikipedia.org »

Yahoo! Answers

Yahoo! AnswersYAHOO! ANSWERS

After having alpha fetoprotein test with good results question?
Has anyone had good results with the alpha fetoprotein test and then had bad results...

The alpha fetoprotein test is done as part of the quad screening. Routinely, an OB shouldn't be offering both of them. Can you clarify what your MD told you? OK: You...

Asked by ericksmommy - 392 days ago

How do radioactive tracers affect alpha fetoprotein levels in pregnant women?
I had a CT scan with radioactive tracers on 2/6 and had blood drawn on...

Alfa fetoproteins are elevated in pregnant women`s sera in cases of fetal abnormalities like multiple gestations and tumors like teratomas in fetus. Though there is a relation between radiation...

Asked by AnthroPsych - 6 months ago


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