IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY, AFP (ALPHA FETO PROTEIN)

The IHC – AFP (Alpha Fetoprotein) test is an immunohistochemistry-based diagnostic assay used to detect AFP protein expression in tissue samples. Alpha fetoprotein is a glycoprotein normally produced during fetal development by the liver and yolk sac. In adults, elevated AFP expression is commonly associated with certain cancers, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and germ cell tumors.

This test is widely used in pathology to identify tumors that produce AFP and to help determine the tissue origin of malignant cells. IHC AFP staining supports accurate diagnosis and classification of liver tumors and certain testicular or ovarian germ cell tumors.

Benefits of the Test

• Helps diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma
• Assists in identifying germ cell tumors
• Supports differentiation of liver-origin tumors
• Improves tumor classification accuracy
• Helps guide oncology treatment planning

Why Doctors Recommend This Test

Doctors recommend the IHC AFP test when there is suspicion of liver cancer or AFP-producing tumors. It is commonly used in:

• Diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
• Evaluation of liver masses
• Identification of yolk sac tumors and germ cell tumors
• Differentiation of metastatic tumors
• Oncology biopsy interpretation

AFP staining is often used along with other markers such as HepPar-1, Glypican-3, HSA, SALL4, and PLAP for comprehensive tumor evaluation.

Preparation Before Test

No special preparation is required from the patient. Important considerations include:

• The test is performed on a biopsy or surgical tissue sample
• No fasting or medication restrictions are needed for the IHC procedure
• Clinical history, serum AFP levels, and imaging studies may assist interpretation

Normal Reporting Time

The typical turnaround time is 3 to 5 working days, depending on laboratory processing and tissue complexity.

Who Should Take This Test

• Patients with suspected liver cancer
• Individuals with liver masses on imaging studies
• Cases requiring germ cell tumor evaluation
• Patients undergoing tumor biopsy classification
• Oncology patients needing immunohistochemistry profiling

The IHC AFP test is an important diagnostic tool in oncopathology. By identifying AFP-producing tumor cells, it helps clinicians confirm liver-origin cancers and germ cell tumors, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.