Alpha fetoprotein - series
Results
Normal AFP levels for men for for non-pregnant women are less than 300 nanograms per milliliter.
Greater-than-normal levels of AFP in men and non-pregnant women may indicate:
- cancer in testes, ovaries, biliary (liver secretion) tract, stomach, or pancreas
- cirrhosis of the liver
- liver cancer
- malignant teratoma
- recovery from hepatitis
During pregnancy, increased levels of AFP may indicate:
- Fetal defects.
- Spina bifida.
- Anencephaly.
- Omphalocele.
- Tetralogy of Fallot.
- Duodenal atresia.
- Turner's syndrome.
- Intrauterine death.
Update Date: 9/12/2011
Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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