What does an alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level of 874 ng/mL mean?
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Haiying
Introduction
In general, an alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level of 874 ng/mL is considered elevated and may be associated with factors such as pregnancy, fetal abnormalities, viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Additionally, elevated AFP levels may also be related to conditions such as pancreatic cancer or testicular cancer. If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Under normal circumstances, an alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level of 874 ng/mL is considered elevated and may be associated with factors such as pregnancy, fetal abnormalities, viral hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, women may experience an increase in AFP levels up to 874 ng/mL, especially during the first trimester. This elevation is particularly common in twin pregnancies, where AFP levels tend to be higher. Usually, no special treatment is required; regular prenatal check-ups are sufficient.
2. Fetal Abnormalities
An AFP level of 874 ng/mL may also indicate fetal defects. Alpha-fetoprotein levels in amniotic fluid or maternal plasma can be used for prenatal fetal monitoring. In cases of neural tube defects, spina bifida, or anencephaly, AFP can leak into the amniotic fluid through the exposed neural tissue, leading to elevated AFP levels in the amniotic fluid. It is recommended that patients undergo further testing, such as amniocentesis, to examine fetal chromosomes. If high-risk factors persist after testing, termination of pregnancy may need to be considered.
3. Viral Hepatitis
Patients with viral hepatitis often have varying degrees of liver function impairment. When liver cells are damaged, regeneration of hepatocytes may occur. These newly regenerated liver cells can produce a certain amount of AFP, leading to elevated AFP levels. Under medical supervision, patients may be treated with medications such as tenofovir alafenamide fumarate tablets or telbivudine tablets.
4. Liver Cirrhosis
In patients with liver cirrhosis, liver function is impaired, leading to gradually increased levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). During the disease course, ongoing liver cell repair and regeneration may occur, which can result in elevated AFP levels due to the presence of newly formed hepatocytes. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as bicyclol tablets or Fuzheng Huayu capsules for treatment.
5. Liver Cancer
The normal serum AFP level in healthy individuals is below 20 ng/mL. An AFP level of 874 ng/mL suggests a possible diagnosis of liver cancer. If liver cancer is confirmed, patients may be treated under medical supervision with medications such as entecavir capsules or lamivudine tablets.
Besides the above, elevated AFP levels may also be associated with conditions such as pancreatic cancer or testicular cancer. If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
