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Alpha fetoprotein - Results

Alternative Names

Fetal alpha globulin; AFP

Normal Values:

The normal values in males or nonpregnant females is generally less than 40 micrograms/liter.

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What abnormal results mean:

Greater-than-normal levels of AFP may be due to:

Cancer in testes, ovaries, biliary (liver secretion) tract, stomach, or pancreas
Cirrhosis of the liver
Liver cancer
Malignant teratoma
Recovery from hepatitis

During pregnancy, abnormal levels of AFP may be due to:

Birth defects, including:
- Anencephaly
- Duodenal atresia
- Gastroschisis
- Omphalocele
- Spina bifida
- Tetralogy of Fallot
- Turner syndrome
Inaccurate due date
Intrauterine death (usually results in a miscarriage)
Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.)

Blood test

Alpha fetoprotein - series

Reviewed last on: 10/28/2008
Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Simpson JL, Otaño L. Prenatal genetic diagnosis. In: Gabbe SG, Niebyl JR, Simpson JL, eds. Obstetrics - Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2007:chap 7.

Lee P, Pincus MR, McPherson RA. Diagnosis and management of cancer using serologic tumor markers. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 21st ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2006:chap 74.

Cunnigham FG, Leveno KL, Bloom SL, et al . Prenatal diagnosis and fetal therapy. In: Cunnigham FG, Leveno KL, Bloom SL, et al, eds. Williams Obstetrics. 22nd ed. New York, NY; McGraw-Hill; 2005:chap 13.

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