Alpha-fetoprotein

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced primarily by the liver of a developing fetus. In adults, AFP levels can be measured through blood tests and are used as a marker for certain health conditions. Elevated levels of AFP can indicate liver diseases, like hepatitis or liver cancer, and certain types of testicular or ovarian tumors. During pregnancy, higher levels are normal, but abnormal results can signal potential issues with the fetus, such as neural tube defects. Therefore, AFP testing can provide important insights for both fetal health and adult disease screening.