Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) Nursing
Management
Definition
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein produced by fetal tissue and tumors that
differentiate from midline embryonic structures. During fetal development, AFP levels in
serum and amniotic fluid rise; because this problem crosses the placenta, it appears in
maternal serum. In late stages of pregnancy, AFP levels in fetal and maternal serum and in
amniotic fluid begin to diminish. During the first year of life, serum AFP levels continue to
decline and usually remain low thereafter.
High maternal serum AFP levels may suggest fetal tube defects, such as spina bifida and
anencephaly; but positive confirmation requires amniocentesis and ultrasongraphy. Other
congenital anomalies, such as Down syndrome and other chromosomal disorders, may be
associated with low maternal serum AFP concentrations.
Elevated serum AFP levels in 70% of nonpregnant persons may indicate hepatocellular
carcinoma (although low AFP levels don’t rule it out) or germ cell tumor of gonadal,
retroperitoneal, or mediastinal origin.
Serum AFP level rises in patients with ataxia telangiectasia and in patients with cancer of the
pancreas, stomach, or biliary system. Transient modest elevations can occur in non
Management
Definition
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein produced by fetal tissue and tumors that
differentiate from midline embryonic structures. During fetal development, AFP levels in
serum and amniotic fluid rise; because this problem crosses the placenta, it appears in
maternal serum. In late stages of pregnancy, AFP levels in fetal and maternal serum and in
amniotic fluid begin to diminish. During the first year of life, serum AFP levels continue to
decline and usually remain low thereafter.
High maternal serum AFP levels may suggest fetal tube defects, such as spina bifida and
anencephaly; but positive confirmation requires amniocentesis and ultrasongraphy. Other
congenital anomalies, such as Down syndrome and other chromosomal disorders, may be
associated with low maternal serum AFP concentrations.
Elevated serum AFP levels in 70% of nonpregnant persons may indicate hepatocellular
carcinoma (although low AFP levels don’t rule it out) or germ cell tumor of gonadal,
retroperitoneal, or mediastinal origin.
Serum AFP level rises in patients with ataxia telangiectasia and in patients with cancer of the
pancreas, stomach, or biliary system. Transient modest elevations can occur in non
