Description
α-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a single polypeptide chain glycoprotein that is primarily produced in the liver and yolk sac of the foetus. Similar to albumin, serum AFP is known to bind and transport a multitude of ligands such as bilirubin, fatty acids, retinoids, steroids, heavy metals, dyes, flavonoids, phytoestrogens, dioxin, and various drugs.
Indications
Elevated levels are found in several malignant diseases such as non-seminomatous testicular cancer, and seminoma with nonseminomatous elements. AFP is an important prognostic indicator of survival in patients with these cancers. Elevated AFP is found in more than 70% of patients with primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Occasional elevations of AFP have also been found in gastrointestinal cancers, teratocarcinoma, acute viral hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, cirrhosis, ataxia telangiectasia and hereditary tyrosinemia.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
1 ml Serum 1 ml Na2, K2-EDTA or Li, Na-Heparin Plasma Stability: 3 Days at Room Temperature 7 Days at 2-8 °C > 7 Days at -20 °C
Special Precautions
Avoid more than 5 freeze/thaw cycles. Avoid grossly haemolysed samples.
Normal Range
Up to 7.0 ng/mL
