Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) - Fluid in Kolkata

Also called: MSAFP, maternal serum AFP, triple screen test

SAMPLE: Blood
Report: Same or next day
PREPARATIONS: No special preparation

The test at a glance

What it checks: An AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) test is a blood test that measures levels of a protein primarily produced by the liver and yolk sac of a developing fetus.
Report delivery: Sample before 12 PM → by 8:30 PM today | Sample after 12 PM → by 1 PM tomorrow
Test for: Men, Women
Age group: All
Commonly advised for: Pregnancy, liver disease, or cancer screening

What is a Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) - Fluid ?

Know More About This Test

AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein) is a protein produced by the fetal liver and yolk sac during pregnancy. In adults, elevated AFP levels may indicate certain liver diseases or cancers, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma and germ cell tumors. AFP testing is also widely used in prenatal screening to assess fetal abnormalities.

Why Is This Test Recommended?

AFP testing is recommended for liver disease evaluation, cancer monitoring, prenatal screening, and follow-up of AFP-producing tumors. It helps detect and monitor hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. In pregnancy, it is used to screen for fetal neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities.

What Do the Results Indicate?

High AFP levels in adults may suggest liver cancer, chronic liver disease such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, or testicular and ovarian germ cell tumors. In pregnancy, abnormal AFP levels may indicate fetal neural tube defects like spina bifida or chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. Normal levels vary by age and pregnancy status.

How Is the Test Performed and Prepared For?

A blood sample is collected through standard venipuncture for laboratory analysis. No fasting is required for this test. Pregnancy status must be communicated to your doctor as reference ranges differ significantly between pregnant and non-pregnant individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is AFP cancer-specific? No; elevated AFP can occur in benign liver conditions, pregnancy, and other non-cancerous situations.
Can benign conditions raise AFP? Yes; cirrhosis, hepatitis, and other chronic liver diseases can cause elevated AFP levels.
Is it used in pregnancy? Yes; AFP is part of routine prenatal screening for fetal development abnormalities.
Is repeat testing common? Yes; serial AFP measurements help monitor disease progression or treatment response.
Does AFP confirm cancer? No; elevated AFP requires further diagnostic imaging or biopsy for cancer confirmation.

Who should take this test

This test measures Alpha Feto Protein in a body fluid sample collected by your doctor. It is used when:

Your doctor has drawn fluid and wants it analysed
A liver condition is being investigated further
Earlier results or a scan need additional information
Your treating doctor is following up a known condition

Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) - Fluid testing in Kolkata

Tapadia Diagnostic Centre in Kolkata offers NABL-accredited Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) - Fluid test from a Blood sample(s). MSAFP, maternal serum AFP, triple screen test is also prescribed for Pregnancy, liver disease, or cancer screening. Established in 1989, this doctor-led diagnostic centre ensures high accuracy. Home sample collection and walk-in facility available at our Kolkata center. Pay at the centre with no advance payment. Book online or visit us.