Which tumor increases AFP only?

Prepare for the Clinical Chemistry Numericals Test. Study with comprehensive questions, each with detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and excel on your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which tumor increases AFP only?

Explanation:
Alpha-fetoprotein is a fetal protein that, when elevated in adults, points to certain cancers. The tumor most classically associated with a rise in AFP is hepatocellular carcinoma, because malignant liver cells often resume AFP production, making it a useful marker to screen for and monitor HCC. In contrast, choriocarcinoma mainly elevates the hormone beta-hCG rather than AFP. Germ cell tumors can raise AFP if they contain yolk sac components, but their marker pattern can include either AFP or hCG depending on histology, so it isn’t AFP exclusively. Gonadal tumors encompass a range of subtypes with different marker profiles. So the tumor that reliably shows an AFP increase as its defining marker is hepatocellular carcinoma.

Alpha-fetoprotein is a fetal protein that, when elevated in adults, points to certain cancers. The tumor most classically associated with a rise in AFP is hepatocellular carcinoma, because malignant liver cells often resume AFP production, making it a useful marker to screen for and monitor HCC. In contrast, choriocarcinoma mainly elevates the hormone beta-hCG rather than AFP. Germ cell tumors can raise AFP if they contain yolk sac components, but their marker pattern can include either AFP or hCG depending on histology, so it isn’t AFP exclusively. Gonadal tumors encompass a range of subtypes with different marker profiles. So the tumor that reliably shows an AFP increase as its defining marker is hepatocellular carcinoma.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy