AFP (Alphafoetoprotein)

Description: 
Alpha-Feto Protein (AFP) measured by sandwich principle immunoassay using the Roche cobas 8000 - e801 analyser
Clinical details: 
Alpha1-foetoprotein is a glycoprotein with a molecular mass of 70 kDa. It is an oncofoetal antigen, present in high concentration in foetal sera, that decreases to a very low concentration after birth. AFP can reappear in some cancer patients. This is due to the reactivation of certain genes as a result of the malignant transformation of cells.
Elevated AFP concentrations in maternal serum during pregnancy can indicate spina bifida, anencephalia, atresia of the oesophagus or multiple pregnancy
Related condition or disease: 
AFP (Alpha-foetoprotein) is a marker for hepatocellular and germ cell (nonseminoma) carcinoma.
Reference range: 

≤ 6.0

Synonyms or keywords: 
Oncofoetal antigen, tumour marker.
Units: 
kIU/L
Department: 
Blood Sciences Department
Location: 
King's College Hospital
Sample type and Volume required: 
Serum - 5ml clotted blood/SST tube
Turnaround time: 
1 day
Criteria for acceptance / rejections of sample
Storage and transport: 
SST
Contacts:
Clinical Biochemistry - Blood Sciences at King's College Hospital
020 3299 4126
King's College Hospital
Bessemer Wing
Denmark Hill
London SE5 9RS
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.
Laboratory: 
Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory at King's

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Last updated: 16/05/2021