Background
AFP is a major plasma protein expressed at high concentrations during fetal development; however, concentrations decrease drastically after birth. AFP is reactivated by approximately 80% of HCC. Like PSA, levels of serum AFP are an important diagnostic tool for detection of HCC. When hepatocytes regenerate or proliferate, AFP concentrations may increase. Elevated AFP concentrations may be observed in cirrhotic patients, during a flare-up of chronic hepatitis, or during the recovery phase postacute hepatitis. Additionally, AFP is commonly used as a tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) or germ cell (nonseminoma) carcinoma.
Cellular location
Secreted