Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)- Serum

Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP)- Serum

Test Overview

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:
 

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.