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Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP), Amniotic Fluid in Lucknow

Also known as: AFP (Alpha Feto Protein), Amniotic Fluid

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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test in Lucknow Overview

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein made by the developing baby which is present in a pregnant woman's blood and the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby. The Alpha Fetoprotein - Amniotic Fluid test is a diagnostic assessment used to measure the levels of alpha-fetoprotein in amniotic fluid (collected through an amniocentesis). This AFP level can indicate an increased risk of birth defects like spina bifida (open neural tube defects) or Down syndrome, prompting further prenatal testing.

The Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) test is a blood test that measures the levels of alpha-fetoprotein, a protein produced by the liver of a developing foetus and, to a lesser extent, by the adult liver. In pregnant women, the AFP test is used to screen for certain foetal abnormalities, such as open neural tube defects, Down syndrome, and other chromosomal abnormalities. It is often part of a multiple marker screen that includes other hormones like hCG, oestriol, and inhibin-A.

In non-pregnant individuals, the AFP test serves as a tumour marker to detect and monitor various types of cancer, particularly those of the liver, testicles, and ovaries. It is especially useful in patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis, as elevated AFP levels can indicate the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma. The AFP test is also used to monitor cancer treatment and recurrence in these individuals.

Reasons for Undergoing the Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test in Lucknow

There are several reasons why a doctor may recommend an AFP test in Lucknow:

  • Prenatal Screening: During pregnancy, the AFP test is used to screen for foetal abnormalities such as open neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida), Down syndrome, and other chromosomal abnormalities.
  • Cancer Detection and Monitoring: The AFP test is used to detect and monitor cancers of the liver, testicles, ovaries, and sometimes stomach, colon, lung, and breast. It is particularly useful in patients with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis.
  • Liver Health Assessment: The AFP test can be used to monitor liver health, especially in cases of liver cirrhosis, where elevated AFP levels can indicate the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma.

List of Parameters Considered During the Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test in Lucknow

The Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) test measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in the blood. The parameters considered during the test include:

  • Normal Levels in Pregnant Women: AFP levels typically range from 10 ng/mL to 150 ng/mL between the 15th and 18th weeks of pregnancy. Abnormal levels may suggest foetal abnormalities or incorrect gestational dating.
  • Normal Levels in Non-Pregnant Adults: AFP levels are generally less than 10 ng/mL in non-pregnant adults. Elevated levels can indicate liver cancer, testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, or other cancers. Levels greater than 400 ng/mL can be indicative of liver tumours.
  • Elevated Levels: Elevated AFP levels can indicate various health issues such as cancers, liver disease (e.g., hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhosis patients), or other conditions like fatty liver disease.

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test Preparation

There are no special preparations required for the AFP test:

  • No Fasting Required: You do not need to fast before undergoing the AFP test.
  • No Specific Precautions: There are no other specific precautions or preparations needed for this test.

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test Results & Interpretation

The results of the AFP test are interpreted differently depending on the context:

  • Interpretation During Pregnancy: Abnormal AFP levels (too high or too low) may indicate foetal abnormalities such as open neural tube defects, Down syndrome, or other chromosomal issues. Further testing like ultrasound or amniocentesis may be necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Interpretation in Non-Pregnant Adults: Elevated AFP levels can indicate liver cancer, testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, or other cancers. Levels greater than 400 ng/mL are particularly concerning for liver tumours. If AFP levels do not decrease after cancer treatment or begin to increase again, it may indicate cancer recurrence.

Home Collection for Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test in Lucknow Near You

Home collection for the AFP test in Lucknow offers a convenient solution for individuals to get tested without visiting a clinic. With Metropolis Healthcare's lab services, a trained phlebotomist comes to your doorstep to collect blood samples. This service ensures comfort and safety while maintaining high standards of sample handling and testing accuracy. Patients can expect a seamless experience with timely and reliable results, empowering them to take proactive steps in managing their health. Metropolis Healthcare's commitment to accessible healthcare underscores its dedication to providing quality diagnostic solutions conveniently at home.

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AFP (Alpha Feto Protein), Amniotic Fluid Price in Lucknow

Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the AFP (Alpha Feto Protein), Amniotic Fluid with a clear pricing structure

The price of AFP (Alpha Feto Protein), Amniotic Fluid in Lucknow is ₹ 1,025

We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

The AFP test is a blood test that measures the levels of alpha-fetoprotein, a protein produced by the foetal liver during pregnancy and, in smaller amounts, by the adult liver. It screens for foetal abnormalities and detects certain cancers in non-pregnant individuals.

An abnormal AFP test result can indicate various health issues, such as foetal abnormalities during pregnancy or certain types of cancer in non-pregnant individuals. Further diagnostic tests are necessary to determine the specific cause of the abnormal levels.

Elevated AFP levels can be caused by several factors, including liver cancer, testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, and other malignancies. In pregnant women, raised AFP may indicate foetal abnormalities such as open neural tube defects or Down syndrome. Non-cancerous conditions like liver cirrhosis and fatty liver disease can also lead to increased AFP levels.

To book an AFP test in Lucknow, you can visit the website of a diagnostic centre like Metropolis Healthcare. Submit your details, choose a convenient time slot, and schedule a home sample collection. A trained phlebotomist will arrive at your doorstep to collect the blood sample.

Yes, home sample collection is available for the AFP test in Lucknow. Diagnostic centers like Metropolis Healthcare provide doorstep collection services, making the process convenient and hassle-free for patients.

Normal AFP levels are typically less than 10 ng/mL in non-pregnant adults. In pregnant women, the normal range is between 10 ng/mL and 150 ng/mL during the 15th to 18th weeks of gestation.

The AFP test is used to screen for foetal abnormalities during pregnancy and to detect and monitor certain types of cancer, such as liver, testicular, and ovarian cancer, in non-pregnant individuals.

The frequency of AFP testing depends on your specific medical condition and your doctor's recommendations. It is often used to monitor cancer treatment and check for recurrence.

The AFP test can be done at any time of the day, as there are no specific time requirements for this blood test.

No, fasting is not required for the AFP test. You can undergo the test without any dietary restrictions.

There are no specific precautions required before getting an AFP test apart from the standard procedures for a blood test.

The AFP test measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in the blood, which is the primary parameter assessed in this test.

The AFP test is performed by drawing a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. No special preparation is needed before the test.

During pregnancy, the AFP test is usually performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of gestation as part of prenatal screening. For cancer monitoring, the test is done as prescribed by your doctor, especially in cases of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, or during and after cancer treatment.

The AFP test itself takes only a few minutes, as it involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm.

The turnaround time for AFP test reports in Lucknow may vary based on the diagnostic center. However, most trusted labs, like Metropolis Healthcare, typically provide reports within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the day/time of sample collection and processing.

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