Is an alpha-fetoprotein level over 90 a serious concern?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels above 90 ng/ml are significantly elevated, indicating a relatively serious condition requiring high vigilance for risks such as malignant liver lesions. AFP is an important tumor marker for liver cancer, with a normal reference value typically below 25 ng/ml. This level far exceeds the standard, necessitating immediate medical evaluation at a department of gastroenterology or hepatology.

Elevated AFP is commonly seen in primary liver cancer; when levels continue to rise or show progressive elevation, the likelihood of liver cancer is very high. Additionally, benign liver conditions such as active hepatitis and liver cirrhosis may also cause AFP elevation, but these usually result in mild to moderate increases. An AFP level above 90 ng/ml warrants prioritized exclusion of malignant diseases, and diagnostic imaging such as liver ultrasound, contrast-enhanced CT, or MRI should be performed to determine the underlying cause.

It is important to note that some patients with early-stage liver cancer may not exhibit obvious symptoms and might only present with elevated AFP levels. Therefore, abnormal AFP results should not be ignored simply due to the absence of noticeable discomfort. Timely completion of imaging studies and liver function assessments is crucial for accurate diagnosis and preventing treatment delays.

In daily life, maintain a low-fat, light diet, avoid spicy, irritating, and moldy foods, follow regular sleep patterns without staying up late, quit smoking and drinking to reduce liver burden, keep emotions stable, avoid excessive fatigue, and engage moderately in gentle exercises like walking to support liver health.