Alpha Feto-protein (AFP)

AFP (Alpha feto-protein):
IN MEN AND NON-PREGNANT WOMEN AND CHILDREN: AFP in the blood can be an indicator of certain types of cancer, especially in testicles, ovaries, stomach, pancreas, or liver. High levels may also be found in Hodgkins Disease, Lymphoma, Brain Tumors, and renal cell cancer.

IN PREGNANT WOMEN: This test checks the levels of Alpha feto-protein in the blood. AFP is a substance made in the liver of an unborn baby. The amount of blood/ AFP concentration can help see ifht e baby may have such problems as spina bifida or anencephaly.