In a liver function test, what is AFP?

Dec 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, AFP in liver function tests refers to alpha-fetoprotein, a glycoprotein primarily synthesized by fetal hepatocytes and the yolk sac. A significant increase in alpha-fetoprotein levels often indicates the presence of an abnormal condition in the body. When alpha-fetoprotein test results are abnormal, it is recommended to consult a physician promptly for professional interpretation.

Generally, AFP in liver function tests refers to alpha-fetoprotein, a glycoprotein primarily synthesized by fetal hepatocytes and the yolk sac. A detailed analysis is as follows:

Alpha-fetoprotein is a glycoprotein mainly produced by fetal liver cells and the yolk sac. It is present at high concentrations in fetal circulation. After birth, its synthesis is rapidly suppressed, so the levels of alpha-fetoprotein in normal adult serum are extremely low. Therefore, a significant increase in alpha-fetoprotein often indicates the presence of abnormal conditions in the body.

Alpha-fetoprotein is a specific biomarker for diagnosing primary liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma. When liver cancer cells are stimulated, they secrete large amounts of alpha-fetoprotein, leading to a marked elevation in serum alpha-fetoprotein levels. In liver diseases such as chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, alpha-fetoprotein levels may also mildly increase, and pregnant women may also exhibit elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels. However, compared to primary liver cancer, the increase caused by these other conditions is usually less pronounced.

If abnormal alpha-fetoprotein test results are observed, it is recommended to consult a doctor promptly for professional interpretation.

Related Articles

View All

What are the late-stage symptoms of breast cancer metastasized to the liver?

When breast cancer cells spread to the liver and reach the terminal stage, patients often develop typical symptoms such as persistent upper right abdominal distension and pain, jaundice throughout the body, severe abdominal bloating resembling a drum, rapid weight loss, and marked loss of appetite. These symptoms indicate severe liver dysfunction and necessitate prompt systemic intervention at a specialized oncology center. In the terminal phase, liver function, coagulation, and blood ammonia levels should be monitored weekly, and animal protein intake should be restricted to prevent hepatic encephalopathy.

View Full Answer

Will primary liver cancer recur after being cured?

In general, whether primary liver cancer will recur after treatment depends on the disease stage. The recurrence rate is relatively low for early-stage primary liver cancer after successful treatment, whereas it is higher for intermediate and advanced stages, requiring long-term monitoring of disease changes. In daily care, patients must strictly follow medical advice to undergo regular follow-up examinations, including monitoring of liver function, tumor markers, and imaging findings.

View Full Answer

Can people with cirrhosis drink milk powder?

Patients with cirrhosis can consume milk powder, but the type of milk powder should be selected according to the stage of their condition, and intake should be controlled. Milk powder can serve as a good source of high-quality protein and calcium, supporting nutritional needs; however, care must be taken to avoid increasing the burden on the liver. It is recommended to choose the type and amount of milk powder under the guidance of a physician or clinical nutritionist, based on liver function indicators such as albumin and blood ammonia levels.

View Full Answer

Do all liver cancer patients have hepatitis?

In general, not all liver cancers are associated with hepatitis. Some liver cancer patients have a history of hepatitis, while others do not have any hepatitis-related issues; the specific situation should be determined based on the causes of liver cancer. It is important to maintain liver health in daily life. Individuals with a history of hepatitis should follow medical advice for standardized treatment and undergo regular check-ups of liver function and liver ultrasound. Those without hepatitis should avoid alcohol consumption, control body weight, and refrain from eating moldy food.

View Full Answer

What is the difference between alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis?

In general, although alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis both belong to liver diseases, they differ in causes, extent of pathological changes, clinical manifestations, treatment focus, and prognosis. It is important in daily life to pay attention to liver health, avoid long-term and excessive alcohol consumption, and undergo regular liver function tests and liver ultrasound examinations to detect liver abnormalities early and initiate timely intervention.

View Full Answer

Does cephalosporin harm the liver?

In general, "cephalosporin" refers to cephalosporin antibiotics, a commonly used class of antimicrobial drugs. Whether cephalosporin antibiotics cause liver damage depends on individual patient factors, including individual differences, method of administration, and potential risk factors. Before taking the medication, patients should inform their doctor about their liver health status and any other medications they are currently taking; liver function should be monitored regularly during treatment.

View Full Answer

What are the manifestations of impaired liver function in decompensated cirrhosis?

In general, decompensated cirrhosis indicates severe liver dysfunction, in which the liver is unable to meet the body's normal physiological demands. Manifestations of impaired liver function mainly include abnormalities of the skin and mucous membranes, digestive and absorptive disorders, tendency to bleeding, endocrine disturbances, and neuropsychiatric abnormalities. Patients should ensure adequate rest, avoid physical exertion, and maintain a light, easily digestible diet in daily life.

View Full Answer

What are the harmful effects of hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C usually refers to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. In general, the risks associated with hepatitis C include damage to liver function, development of chronic liver disease, increased risk of liver cancer, occurrence of extrahepatic complications, and transmission to others. It is recommended that individuals infected with hepatitis C undergo timely, standardized treatment to control viral replication and delay disease progression.

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.