Alpha-Fetoprotein
Test Code
AFP
Description
Elevation of serum AFP above values found in healthy individuals occurs in several malignant diseases, most notably nonseminomatous testicular cancer and primary hepatocellular carcinoma. AFP is not recommended as a screening procedure to detect cancer in the general population.
Collect
Plain red top or SST tube.
Pediatric Collection
Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL serum
Unacceptable Conditions
Gross hemolysis, lipemia, high triglycerides, heat-activated, pooled specimens
Storage Transport Temp
Onsite [NJH]: Transport to lab within 1 hour.
Offsite: Send frozen serum Priority Overnight via FedEx and in a well insulated container on dry ice.
Stability
Stability after cell separation:
3 days at RT (15-25°C)
1 week at 2-8°C
1 month frozen at -20°C
Frozen specimens must be completely thawed before mixing. Mix thawed specimens by inverting 10X or low speed vortexing. If specimen contains fibrin, red blood cells, or particulate matter then centrifuge at ≥ 10,000 RCF (Relative Centrifugal Force) for 10 minutes.
Performed
Monday & Thursday
Methodology
Abbott Architect AFP Assay
The Abbott Architect AFP assay is a chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) for the quantitative determination of alpha fetoprotein (AFP). Patient results determined by assays using different manufacturer or methods may not be compareable.
Turnaround Time
4 hour routine, 1 hour STAT
Department
Core Lab
Synonyms
AFP
Study Offerings
Not offered
Reference Interval
0.9 - 8.8 mg/dL
CPT Code
82105
New York Approved
FDA Approved or Cleared
FDA
Approved or Cleared