Alpha-fetoproteins

Alpha-fetoproteins (AFP, α-fetoproteins) are the first alpha-globulins to appear in mammalian sera during development of the embryo and the dominant serum proteins in early embryonic life. Their level drops after birth, but may be elevated in certain diseases.

Use in Obstetrics
They may also be elevated in the amniotic fluid and maternal serum during pregnancy in anencephaly One determination procedure uses radioimmunoassay of infant heel-stick blood. The authors see AFP as a screening test requiring followup determination for other genetic disorders.

Use in Oncology and Gastroenterology
They reappear in the adult serum during certain pathologic states, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma.