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Non-Malaysian citizens are subject to 6% SST, to be verified and paid at the counter before screening.

AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) Test — Liver Cancer Marker

Introduction

The AFP test measures alpha-fetoprotein in the blood, a common tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). AFP is normally high in fetuses, but levels in adults are very low. Elevated AFP may indicate liver cancer or liver disease.

Beyond cancer detection, AFP is widely used for monitoring chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and treatment follow-up.

Why Take an AFP Test?

Diagnostic aid: Supports liver cancer risk evaluation alongside imaging.
Disease monitoring: Tracks liver disease activity in hepatitis or cirrhosis.
Treatment follow-up: Helps monitor response and recurrence after HCC therapy.

Method & Workflow

A venous blood sample is collected to measure AFP concentration. Results must be interpreted with imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI) and clinical history.

Factors & Notes

Benign liver conditions (e.g., hepatitis flare, cirrhosis) and pregnancy may also raise AFP.
Early-stage liver cancer may present with normal AFP; thus, AFP alone is insufficient.
Clinical importance lies in serial trends, not isolated results.

Who Should Consider Testing?

Patients with chronic hepatitis B or C
Individuals with cirrhosis
High-risk groups (family history of liver cancer, heavy alcohol use, aflatoxin exposure)
HCC patients in treatment or post-treatment follow-up

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does high AFP always mean liver cancer?
A: No. Hepatitis, cirrhosis, and pregnancy can also elevate AFP, so interpretation requires imaging and clinical context.

Q2: Does a normal AFP exclude liver cancer?
A: No. Some early HCC cases show normal AFP, so ultrasound or CT is still necessary.

Q3: How often should AFP be tested?
A: High-risk individuals (e.g., hepatitis or cirrhosis) should undergo AFP testing regularly as guided by physicians.

If you have any health-related questions, feel free to contact us via WhatsApp at CONTACT US. We will arrange a one-on-one consultation with a dedicated specialist to provide you with detailed explanations and recommendations.

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