Will alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels increase during the recovery period after resection of benign liver tumors?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels may generally increase during the recovery period after removal of benign liver tumors.

Under normal circumstances, benign liver tumors grow slowly, have clear boundaries, and do not spread or metastasize. They typically do not affect liver function or blood composition, and therefore do not cause elevated AFP levels. However, after surgical removal of the tumor, liver tissue may be damaged, and during the liver's self-repair process, regeneration of new hepatocytes might lead to a temporary increase in AFP levels. This is usually a transient and normal physiological phenomenon.

If AFP levels remain elevated and do not return to normal, it is recommended to visit a hospital for further evaluation under a physician's guidance to rule out the possibility of malignant tumors.