Cancer screening
AFP
Also known as: Alpha Fetoprotein
What it means
A protein used to screen for liver cancer, testicular cancer, and (in pregnancy) fetal neural tube defects.
Typical normal range
Adults: <10 ng/mL
Reference ranges vary by lab, age, sex, and pregnancy. Always check the range on your own report.
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Related terms in Cancer screening
PSA
A protein from the prostate. Elevated levels in men can mean an enlarged prostate, infection, or sometimes prostate cancer — needs context.
CA-125
A protein sometimes elevated in ovarian cancer, but also in endometriosis, fibroids, and pregnancy. Never diagnostic alone.
CEA
A tumour marker used mainly to monitor colon cancer treatment response. Slightly elevated in smokers and inflammatory bowel disease.
Sources & Standards
The plain-language explanations above draw on published standards from the following bodies. Reference ranges and thresholds vary slightly by lab and demographic — always check the range on your own report and follow your doctor's interpretation.
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Global public-health authority
Global reference ranges and disease classifications.
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
India's apex biomedical research body
India-specific clinical guidelines and reference values.
- National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)
India's lab-accreditation authority
Reference-range framework used by accredited Indian labs.
- NIH / MedlinePlus
US National Institutes of Health patient-education arm
Plain-language descriptions of tests, conditions, and medicines.
We can be wrong. Explanations here are for comprehension only — confirm every decision with your doctor.
This is a plain-language explanation for patients, not clinical advice. AI can be wrong. Always confirm with your doctor.