AFP - Liver Cancer Marker
AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) is a protein made in the liver of a developing baby. AFP levels are usually high when a baby is born, but fall to very low levels by the age of 1. Healthy adults should have very low levels of AFP. High levels of AFP can be a sign of liver cancer or cancer of the ovaries or testicles, as well as noncancerous liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.
Symptoms of liver cancer
- Losing weight without trying
- Loss of appetite
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- General weakness & fatigue
- Abdominal swelling
- Jaundice
- White, chalky stools
Prevention
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis B
- Take measures to prevent hepatitis C
- Seek treatment for hepatitis B or C infection
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The normal ranges:Â < 11 ug/L
*Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different labs. Some labs use different measurements or may test different specimens. Talk to your provider about your test results.
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