Is alpha-fetoprotein always elevated in primary liver cancer?
Mar 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
If the primary liver cancer lesion is relatively small, the amount of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) produced may be low. Alternatively, even if the tumor is large, AFP levels might still be low if secretion is delayed or reduced. Since the cancer cells in primary liver cancer are undifferentiated primitive cells capable of secreting large amounts of AFP, AFP levels are generally elevated in most cases.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels are not necessarily elevated in primary liver cancer and should be evaluated based on individual circumstances.
1. Not elevated
Although primary liver cancer can lead to increased AFP levels, the elevation may not occur if the tumor is small and thus produces only a small amount of AFP. Additionally, even with larger tumors, AFP levels might remain low if secretion is delayed or limited.
2. Elevated
In most cases, primary liver cancer cells—being poorly differentiated primitive cells—are capable of secreting large amounts of AFP, leading to elevated AFP levels.
Upon diagnosis of primary liver cancer, it is recommended to actively pursue standardized treatment under a physician's guidance to help control disease progression and improve prognosis.
