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Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)- Serum

Also Known as Maternal Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein (MSAFP)

No preparation required

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RECOMMENDED BY:Dr. Bhattacharya

Specialises in Blood Studies

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  • Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)- Serum

    1 test included

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About

blood sample
Sample

BLOOD

Gender
Gender

Both

users
Age group

7 years & above

Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)- Serum

Test Overview

Sample TypeBlood
Reports Delivery36 Hrs
Price/Cost₹1200
Number of Tests Included  1

What is an Alpha Fetoprotein Test?

An Alpha Fetoprotein Test, often referred to as an AFP test, is a type of blood test that measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in your blood. Alpha-fetoprotein is a protein that is produced by the liver and yolk sac of a developing foetus during pregnancy.

The top Alpha Fetoprotein tests are available in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Gurgaon, Noida, Chennai.

It is a valuable diagnostic tool in prenatal care, frequently utilized to screen for a variety of congenital conditions in pregnant women. Elevated AFP levels in a pregnant woman can indicate potential neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, as well as chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome. By identifying these potential issues early, healthcare providers can offer appropriate interventions and support, ensuring better outcomes for both the mother and the foetus. In non-pregnant adults, it is used as a diagnostic and monitoring tool for a range of liver conditions, including liver cancer and other types of tumours.

Elevated AFP levels in adults can be a marker of liver disease or cancer, prompting further investigation and treatment.
Thus, the alpha-fetoprotein blood test is a versatile diagnostic tool, aiding in the early detection and management of significant health conditions across different patient groups.

What is the Alpha Fetoprotein Test Price?

The alpha-fetoprotein blood test is usually affordable. However, knowing the key factors that impact the AFP test price can assist you well in navigating your healthcare journey. Variations in the cost can be attributed to the following factors:

  • Test Demand: The AFP test price is often influenced by its demand. In major cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Gurgaon, Noida, and Chennai, where there is a higher demand for the test, you might observe slightly elevated test costs.
  • Laboratory Quality: The quality of the laboratory conducting the AFP test procedure also impacts the overall test cost. Laboratories with advanced technology and strict quality control measures may charge higher prices for their services. It's essential to prioritise selecting a certified laboratory known for its accuracy and reliability.
  • Comprehensive Inclusions: The cost of the AFP blood test generally includes several components, such as laboratory fees, sample collection charges, and any related professional fees. Additionally, it may also include information about the AFP test normal range, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of your test results. It's important to understand what these charges include to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected costs.
  • Discounts and Promotions: Healthcare facilities often provide discounts or bundled packages for diagnostic tests like the alpha-fetoprotein test. Such offers can significantly lower the overall test expenses.

Apollo 24|7 maintains competitive AFP test price while ensuring exceptional service quality. Before undergoing an alpha-fetoprotein blood test, you should check the test prices across different cities.

What is the Purpose of the Alpha Fetoprotein Test?

An AFP test helps detect various health conditions from birth defects to certain types of cancer. The AFP test purpose is multi-fold:

  • Tracking Pregnancy Progress: For expectant mothers, changes in alpha-fetoprotein can help track the progress of pregnancy. Normal levels typically indicate that the pregnancy is progressing well, while abnormally high or low levels may suggest potential complications.
  • Screening for Birth Defects: In pregnant women, an AFP blood test forms part of a set of screenings known as triple or quadruple tests. These are routine antenatal tests used to identify potential birth defects in the baby. Elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein could suggest problems like neural tube defects or abdominal wall defects whereas low AFP levels may indicate chromosomal abnormalities such as Down's syndrome.
  • Diagnosing Liver Diseases: One of the primary purposes of an alpha-fetoprotein test is to detect and monitor liver disorders. If your doctor suspects a liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, an AFP blood test may be advised. High levels of AFP can indicate an underlying liver condition.
  • Cancer Detection: The alpha-fetoprotein blood test also aids in detecting certain types of cancers like liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), germ cell tumours, and cancers in ovaries or testicles.
  • Monitoring Cancer Treatment: Once cancer has been diagnosed, doctors often use the AFP test to monitor the progress of treatment and assess if the cancer is responding to therapy or not.

Who Should Get an Alpha Fetoprotein Test Done?

The necessity for an alpha-fetoprotein blood test is not universal but rather specific to certain groups of people based on their health status or risk factors. Below are the categories of people who should consider AFP testing:

  • Pregnant Women: Pregnant women are one group who are frequently advised to undergo this specific test. The alpha-fetoprotein levels in a pregnant woman's blood can give valuable insights into the health of the developing foetus.
  • Individuals with Liver Diseases: An AFP blood test may be recommended by your family doctor if you have liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis. Elevated levels of AFP in an individual's blood are often associated with liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • Patients undergoing Cancer Treatment: For patients undergoing cancer treatment, especially for germ cell tumours of the ovaries or testicles and liver cancer, regular AFP testing becomes crucial. It helps in monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment and can also detect any relapse at an early stage.
  • High-Risk Individuals: If you fall in the high-risk category due to lifestyle choices or genetic predisposition, then your doctor might suggest an AFP blood test as a part of preventative healthcare. This includes heavy drinkers, smokers, those with chronic Hepatitis B or C and individuals with a family history of liver diseases or liver cancer.

Components of an Alpha Fetoprotein Test

Knowing the components of an AFP blood test is crucial for accurately assessing and managing potential health conditions related to alpha-fetoprotein levels. Below is the key component included in the AFP test list:

  • Alpha-fetoprotein: It is a protein produced by the foetal liver and yolk sac during pregnancy. The AFP test is conducted to screen for birth defects and monitor the health and development of the foetus. In adults, this test is used for diagnostic purposes, monitoring the effectiveness of treatment, and detecting potential recurrence of liver disorders.

Understanding the Alpha Fetoprotein Test Report

Understanding the AFP test report along with the AFP test normal range is essential for preventive healthcare and precise treatment. Below are the test ranges:
 

CategoryNormal RangeHighLow
Men & Non-pregnant Women0 to 40 ng/mL>40 ng/mLNot a concern
Pregnant Women10 and 150 ng/mL>150 ng/mL<10 ng/mL
High Levels May IndicateLow Levels May Indicate
Elevated AFP levels in non-pregnant adults can signal liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).
Elevated AFP levels during pregnancy can suggest neural tube defects in the developing fetus, such as spina bifida (birth defect in which the spinal cord doesn't develop properly) or anencephaly (incomplete development of the brain and skull).
Low levels of alpha-fetoprotein in non-pregnant adults are generally not a cause for concern and usually do not indicate any specific health condition.
In pregnant women, low AFP levels can be significant. They may indicate chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21) or Edward's syndrome (trisomy 18).

Preparation and Procedure for Alpha Fetoprotein Blood Test

Proper AFP test preparation is essential to ensure precise and reliable test results, which are crucial for making an accurate diagnosis and determining appropriate next steps.

How is the Alpha Fetoprotein Test Done?

The AFP test is a safe and fast procedure where a blood sample is extracted from a vein in your arm.

  • A doctor or trained healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a fine needle. This blood sample is then collected in a vial or test tube for analysis. The collected blood sample will be sent to a laboratory where the alpha-fetoprotein levels in the serum will be evaluated.
  • While you may feel a slight sting as the needle pierces your skin for a blood sample, the process is usually quick, typically lasting less than five minutes.

Occasionally, you might notice some pain or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted, but these symptoms resolve quickly

Is Fasting Required for an Alpha Fetoprotein Test?

Fasting is generally not necessary for an alpha-fetoprotein blood test.

  • Your healthcare provider may suggest temporary cessation or adjustment of certain medications to avoid interference with the test.

It's always a good practice to clarify pre-test requirements with your doctor beforehand to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding.

What Time of the Day Should I Undergo an Alpha Fetoprotein Test?

An alpha-fetoprotein blood test is not limited to a specific time frame.
The blood test can be taken at any time, as no special preparations like fasting are needed for this test.
However, always consult your doctor about timings as they may vary based on personal health conditions and other factors.

Booking Alpha Fetoprotein Test Online & Checking Reports

Online healthcare services provide great convenience, especially for elderly individuals, pregnant women, and people with limited mobility. This section will guide you through the simple process of booking an AFP test procedure online at Apollo 24|7 and the steps to download the test report once it is ready.

What are the Steps to Schedule an Alpha Fetoprotein Test on Apollo 24|7?

Booking your alpha-fetoprotein blood test through Apollo 24|7 is quick and easy, providing a seamless experience from the comfort of your home. Follow these simple steps to schedule your test:

  • Visit Apollo 24|7 Website or App: Begin by visiting the Apollo 24|7 website or downloading their mobile app. Both platforms are designed to be user-friendly and easy to navigate.
  • Search for the Test: On the homepage, locate the search box, typically at the top. Enter "alpha-fetoprotein test" to go directly to the relevant test page.
  • Select Your Preferred Time and Location: On the test page, choose a convenient time slot and location for your AFP test procedure. Use the "near me" feature to find nearby options.
  • Complete Your Booking: After selecting your preferred time and location, enter the necessary information to complete your online booking for the blood test.
  • Wait for Confirmation: Finally, wait for a confirmation message from Apollo 24|7, indicating that your booking for the alpha-fetoprotein test has been successfully processed.

How do I Access my Alpha Fetoprotein Test Results Online on Apollo 24|7?

Once your blood sample has been collected and analysed, follow these steps to easily access, review, and download your AFP test report through the Apollo 24|7 platform:

  • Await Notification: You will receive a notification from Apollo 24|7 when your test results are ready for viewing.
    Access Your Account: Log in to your personal account on the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app using your registered credentials.
  • Navigate to the Reports Section: After successfully logging in, go to the dedicated 'Reports' section where all your medical test results are securely stored.
  • Locate 'Alpha-fetoprotein blood test': Find the specific entry corresponding to your alpha-fetoprotein blood test among the list of available reports.
  • Download Your Report: Search for the option to download and store your test report. This feature allows you to retain a copy of your AFP test report for future use or to share it with your doctor.

faqFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If my alpha-fetoprotein blood test results fall outside the normal range, what are the next steps? Should I consult a specialist or make specific lifestyle changes?

An abnormal AFP blood test result may indicate various health conditions. It's essential to consult your family doctor or a specialist immediately for further investigation. Your doctor might suggest additional tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to confirm a diagnosis. Remember, an abnormal test result doesn't always mean you have a serious condition; it could be due to pregnancy or liver inflammation.

Are there any alternative or complementary tests to consider alongside an Alpha-Fetoprotein test for a more comprehensive assessment?

Indeed, doctors often perform an AFP test in combination with other tests like ultrasound, computerised tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. These additional tests can provide a more comprehensive view of your health condition.

Are there any emerging technologies or advancements in Alpha-Fetoprotein testing that I should be aware of?

Medical technology is constantly evolving, and this includes AFP testing too. In recent years, developments in genetic profiling and molecular biology have provided new insights into the function of Alpha-Fetoprotein. Keep in touch with your doctor to stay informed about the latest innovations that could benefit you.

Can I drink water before an alpha-fetoprotein blood test?

Yes, you are allowed to drink water before undergoing an AFP blood test. However, it's always best to consult with your doctor prior to testing for any specific instructions related to diet or hydration

How accurate is an alpha-Fetoprotein blood test for diagnosing genetic defects in foetus?

The alpha-fetoprotein blood test is a useful screening tool for genetic defects in a foetus. While abnormal AFP levels can indicate potential issues like neural tube defects or chromosomal abnormalities, it has some limitations. To confirm genetic abnormalities or birth defects, additional tests such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), or detailed ultrasound are often recommended.

Does an abnormal AFP blood test always mean cancer or liver disease?

No, while elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein can indicate certain types of cancer and liver diseases, other factors can also cause increased levels including pregnancy and certain gastrointestinal disorders. Therefore, further tests would be required for an accurate diagnosis.

Is there any preparation required for an alpha-fetoprotein blood test?

No specific preparation is required for this test. However, it's always a good practice to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are currently taking, as they could potentially influence the test results.

What causes raised Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)?

Raised AFP could be due to several reasons including pregnancy, liver diseases, or certain types of cancer such as liver, ovary, testicles etc. It's important to note that a high level of AFP doesn't necessarily mean you have these diseases as the increase could be due to less serious conditions too.

Why should Apollo be your preferred healthcare partner?

  • 40 Years of legacy and credibility in the healthcare industry.
  • NABL certified multi-channel digital healthcare platform.
  • Affordable diagnostic solutions with timely and accurate test results.
  • Up to 60% discount on Doorstep Diagnostic Tests, Home Sample Collection.
  • An inventory of over 100+ laboratories, spread across the country, operating out of 120+ cities with 1200+ collection centers, serving over 1800+ pin codes.

The information mentioned above is meant for educational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute to your Physician’s advice. It is highly recommended that the customer consults with a qualified healthcare professional to interpret test results