Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) IHC

The Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) IHC test detects the presence of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in tissue samples. 

• Diagnose HCC: HCC is the most common type of liver cancer. AFP levels are elevated in about 40% of HCC cases. The AFP IHC test can help to diagnose HCC and determine the extent of the disease.
• Diagnose yolk sac tumor: Yolk sac tumor is a type of germ cell tumor that is most common in children. AFP levels are elevated in almost all cases of yolk sac tumor. The AFP IHC test can help to diagnose yolk sac tumor and determine the extent of the disease.
• Diagnose germ cell tumors: Germ cell tumors are a type of cancer that develops from cells that produce sperm or eggs. AFP levels can be elevated in some types of germ cell tumors, such as embryonal carcinoma and mixed germ cell tumors. The AFP IHC test can help to diagnose germ cell tumors and determine the extent of the disease.
• Monitor treatment response: The AFP IHC test can be used to monitor the response to treatment for HCC, yolk sac tumor, and some germ cell tumors. If AFP levels decrease after treatment, it may mean that the treatment is working. 

The AFP test may be recommended if you:

• The AFP IHC test may be recommended for people who have symptoms of HCC, yolk sac tumor, or germ cell tumors.
• The test may also be recommended for people who are at high risk of developing these types of cancer.

A positive AFP IHC test result means that AFP was detected in the tissue sample. This may be a sign of cancer. However, it is important to note that a positive AFP IHC test result does not always mean that cancer is present. Other conditions, such as cirrhosis of the liver and pregnancy, can also cause AFP levels to be elevated. 

A small sample of tissue is removed from the patient and sent to a laboratory for testing. The tissue sample is then stained with the anti-AFP antibody. If AFP is present in the tissue sample, it will bind to the antibody and turn a brown color. The stained tissue sample is then examined under a microscope to see if there are any AFP-positive cells present. 

Generally, no specific preparations are required for an Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) IHC test. However, consult your healthcare provider for any specific preparations. 

• Liver function tests: These tests assess liver health and function.
• Imaging tests: Such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, to further evaluate suspected liver tumours or neural tube defects during pregnancy

AFP IHC test

Liver cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the liver cells. It can be primary (originating in the liver) or secondary (spreading from other parts of the body). Common risk factors for liver cancer include chronic hepatitis B or C infection, heavy alcohol use, obesity, and certain inherited liver diseases. Early detection through tests like AFP can improve treatment outcomes.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of cancer that begins in the liver cells. It is the most common type of primary liver cancer, accounting for about 75-85% of all liver cancer cases worldwide. HCC is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, after lung and stomach cancer.