What causes elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels?

In general, elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels may be caused by conditions such as newborn status, excessive alcohol consumption, pregnancy, liver cirrhosis, or chronic hepatitis. If any of these situations occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Newborns

For a period after birth, newborns may have elevated AFP levels due to residual fetal AFP and the incomplete maturation of their own liver function. If there are no symptoms of discomfort, treatment is usually unnecessary—observation alone is sufficient.

2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Long-term or excessive alcohol intake can cause liver cell damage and trigger liver regeneration. Regenerating liver cells may produce AFP during the repair process. This condition can be improved in daily life by abstaining from alcohol.

3. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, fetal liver cells synthesize AFP, which passes through the placenta into the maternal bloodstream, potentially increasing maternal serum AFP levels. Regular check-ups are necessary during pregnancy to monitor fetal health.

4. Liver Cirrhosis

Conditions such as hepatitis B or autoimmune hepatitis may lead to liver cirrhosis. In cirrhosis, severe liver cell damage leads to regeneration, and newly formed liver cells may produce large amounts of AFP, resulting in elevated levels. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as ascites, jaundice, and palmar erythema. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as entecavir dispersible tablets, compound softshell turtle shell tablets (Fufang Biejia Ruangan Pian), and Fuzheng Huayu capsules.

5. Chronic Hepatitis

Chronic hepatitis is primarily caused by viral infections or long-term alcohol use. After liver cell injury in patients with chronic hepatitis, AFP may be produced during the repair process, leading to elevated serum AFP levels. Symptoms may also include dull pain in the liver area and hepatomegaly (enlarged liver). Patients should follow medical advice and take medications such as tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, lamivudine tablets, and bicyclol tablets.

In daily life, individuals should pay attention to personal health, maintain good lifestyle habits, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and inappropriate use of medications, to protect liver health and prevent abnormal elevation of AFP levels.