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Alpha Fetoprotein
Test CodeAFPF
Alias/See Also
AFP
CPT Codes
82105
Preferred Specimen
Serum: (Gold)
Other Acceptable Specimens
Serum (Red) or Gold (SST) or Orange (OJ) or Tiger Top Serum
Instructions
Separate serum from blood cells within 2 hours of collection.
NOTE: Maternal serum samples should be obtained between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation. Valid measurements of AFP in maternal serum CANNOT be made after amniocentesis. Maternal serum samples MUST be drawn PRIOR to amniocentesis. A reliable AFP evaluation for prenatal testing requires precise determination of the gestational age. Underestimation of the gestational age may lead to a false positive determination, while over estimation of gestational age may result in a false negative interpretation. When gestational age is uncertain, confirmation with ultrasonography is indicated.
NOTE: Maternal serum samples should be obtained between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation. Valid measurements of AFP in maternal serum CANNOT be made after amniocentesis. Maternal serum samples MUST be drawn PRIOR to amniocentesis. A reliable AFP evaluation for prenatal testing requires precise determination of the gestational age. Underestimation of the gestational age may lead to a false positive determination, while over estimation of gestational age may result in a false negative interpretation. When gestational age is uncertain, confirmation with ultrasonography is indicated.
Specimen Stability
Serum: Allow serum specimen to clot completely. Centrifuge. Within two hours after centrifugation, transfer 500 µL of cell-free sample to a storage tube. Tightly stopper the tube immediately. Store samples tightly stoppered at room temperature (15 to 30°C) for up to eight hours. >8 hours, refrigerate the samples at 2 to 8°C. >48 hours, freeze at -20°C or colder. Thaw samples only once.
Methodology
Beckman AU
Setup Schedule
24x7
Report Available
1 day
Reference Range
Serum: 0-8.0 ng/mL
Clinical Significance
1. To help diagnose and monitor therapy for certain cancers of the liver, testes, or ovaries
2. For pregnant women, to assess the risk of having a baby with certain chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21) or Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), or open neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
2. For pregnant women, to assess the risk of having a baby with certain chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21) or Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), or open neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
Performing Laboratory
CRMC Laboratory
