← Blood tests
AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein)
Specialistalso —
What it isAFP is a fetal protein normally present in pregnancy. In adults, it rises with hepatocellular carcinoma and certain germ cell tumors.
DoesScreens for liver cancer in high-risk patients (cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis B/C) and monitors germ cell tumor treatment.
GoodLow AFP in a cirrhotic patient supports surveillance reassurance.
BadRising AFP in chronic liver disease flags possible hepatocellular carcinoma; elevation in young men can signal testicular germ cell tumor.
- Standard
- <8.3 ng/mL.
- Optimal
- 0–8.3 ng/mL (lower is good)
- Modifiers
- Elevated in pregnancy normally; benign elevations in chronic hepatitis.
How to optimize
- Lifestyle
- Hepatitis B vaccination, treat hepatitis C, avoid alcohol in liver disease.
- Diet
- Mediterranean pattern.
- Supplements
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- Peptides
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- Drugs
- Antiviral therapy for hepatitis B/C; cancer-directed therapy if indicated.
Reference ranges are general adult lab norms; optimal ranges are editorial picks from the longevity literature — not medical advice. Always interpret results with your physician.
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