Eurofins Biomnis code

AFP

Synonyms

• A-fetoprotein
• Alpha-fetoprotein

Specialty

Biochemistry

Clinical significance

A glycoprotein synthesized in the fetal liver and yolk sac which can cross the placental barrier. Disappears from the blood of both mother and child within a few weeks of birth. Assay useful in the diagnosis and monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma and testicular cancer. Also used for the determination of neural tube defects and in Downs syndrome

Preanalytics

• 1 mL :
• serum
•   Reftrigerated

• A tube specifically for this analysis : No

Further information

ATTENTION: interference possible in patients treated with biotin (vitamin B7, B8 or H) or taking any food supplement containing biotin. Essential to STOP treatment 8 days before taking the sample.

Methodology

Electrochemiluminescence

Turnaround time

1 day