AFP, Tumor Marker

Message

Performing Lab: Central Lab

Test Code

0418

Alias/See Also

Sunquest: AFPTM; Alpha FetoProtein Tumor Marker

CPT Codes
82105

Preferred Specimen

0.3 mL Serum Separator (gold-top) tube

Minimum Volume

0.2 mL

Other Acceptable Specimens

Red, Red/Gray top

Instructions

Processing:
Centrifuge specimens within 2 hours of collection

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated

Specimen Stability

Refrigerated: 7 days

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Plasma is not an acceptable sample type
Specimens received un-spun

Methodology
Chemiluminescence

Setup Schedule

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday

Report Available

Same day

Reference Range

0.0 - 9.0 ng/mL
Reference values are for non-pregnant subjects only.

Clinical Significance

Elevated serum AFP concentrations may be associated with primary cancer of the liver. It has been demonstrated that elevated serum AFP concentrations may occur in several malignant diseases, most notably, non-seminomatous testicular cancer and primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Measurement of AFP has been found to be useful in the management of patients with non-seminomatous testicular cancer. Recurrence of tumor growth is often accompanied by a rise in AFP concentration before the appearance of clinical symptoms. Elevated concentrations of AFP have also been found in cases of nonmalignant liver disease.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.