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Test Code 281 Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Tumor Marker

Important Note

Human anti-mouse antibodies (hama) may be present in samples from patients who have received immunotherapy or diagnostic procedures utilizing monoclonal antibodies or in individuals who have been regularly exposed to animals. Additionally, other heterophile antibodies, such as human anti-goat antibodies may be present in patient samples. Manufacturers formulate assays to minimize the effects of these antibodies; however careful evaluation of patient results must be done when patients are known to have such antibodies.

Additional Codes

ALAB: AFP

PowerChart: Alpha Fetoprotein Tumor Marker

MA Cerner: Alpha-Fetoprotein

Test Method

Two-Site Immunoenzymatic (Sandwich) Assay; Beckman Coulter

Specimen Requirement

0.5 mL serum is required.

Additional Specimen Collection Information

Collect blood in a red-top or serum gel tube. Serum should be separated from contact with the cells within 2 hours of collection. Specimens not centrifuged within 4 hours of collection may be rejected. Refrigerate the specimen if unable to assay within 8 hours of collection. Samples with >3+ lipemia must be cleared prior to analysis.

Performance

Monday through Sunday

Routine: Typically completed within 4 hours after arrival at the testing site.

Expedite: Typically completed within 2 hours after specimen arrives at the testing site.

STAT: Typically completed within 1.5 hours after specimen arrives at the testing site.

Reference Values

 

 Age  Male  Female
 0-13 days  5,000-105,000 ng/mL  5,000-105,000 ng/mL
 14-30 days  300-60,000 ng/mL  300-60,000 ng/mL
 1 month  100-10,000 ng/mL  100-10,000 ng/mL
 2 months  40-1,000 ng/mL  40-1,000 ng/mL
 3 months  11-300 ng/mL  11-300 ng/mL
 4 months  5-200 ng/mL  5-200 ng/mL
 5 months  0-90 ng/mL  0-90 ng/mL
 6-12 months  0-90 ng/mL  0-99 ng/mL
 1 year  0-19 ng/mL  0-36 ng/mL
 2 years  0-12 ng/mL  0-12 ng/mL
 3-6 years  0-5 ng/mL  0-5 ng/mL
 7 years and older  0-9 ng/mL  0-9 ng/mL

 

CPT Code Information

82105 Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP); serum

Useful For

The follow-up management of patients undergoing cancer therapy, especially for testicular and ovarian tumors and for hepatocellular carcinoma. Often used in conjunction with human chorionic gonadotropin.

LOINC Code Information

53962-7 Alpha-1-Fetoprotein.Tumor Marker [Mass/Volume] In Serum Or Plasma