Fetal protein
Hello Doctor, last April I had a health check at Wan Fang Hospital where my fetal protein level was 6.93 (<20).
In June, during a company health check, my fetal protein level was 8.90 (<8.5).
I then went to another clinic for a recheck and it was 7.54 (<7.0).
At that time, my GOT was 23, GPT was 18, HBsAb was positive, and HBsAg was negative.
An abdominal ultrasound was normal.
In June, I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner and took herbal medicine, but I did not take any in April.
After six months, I returned to Wan Fang Hospital for a follow-up on my fetal protein, which went back down to 6.9 (<20), with GOT at 22 and GPT at 18.
I would like to know if I still need to continue monitoring or if returning to normal is sufficient.
Additionally, could the elevated fetal protein in June be related to the herbal medicine? Thank you.
Xiao Wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/10/28
Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The slight fluctuations and mildly elevated fetal protein levels may not have any special clinical significance, especially if there is no chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis present.
In that case, it can only be monitored.
As for whether it is related to traditional Chinese medicine, it remains uncertain.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Qi-Feng, Taoyuan Hospital.
Reply Date: 2013/10/28
More Info
When it comes to monitoring fetal protein levels, particularly alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), it's essential to understand its significance and the implications of elevated levels. AFP is a protein produced by the fetal liver, and its levels are typically measured during pregnancy to assess fetal health. However, elevated AFP levels can also indicate liver disease or other conditions in adults, which is why your situation warrants careful consideration.
In your case, your AFP levels have fluctuated, with readings of 6.93, 8.90, and 7.54, all of which are below the upper limit of normal for adults (<20). However, the spike to 8.90 is concerning, especially since it was above the normal threshold of 8.5. Elevated AFP levels can be associated with various conditions, including liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, certain cancers, and even pregnancy-related issues in women. Given your history of liver function tests (GOT and GPT) and the normal abdominal ultrasound, it seems that there may not be an immediate cause for alarm, but continued monitoring is advisable.
The fact that your AFP levels returned to 6.9 after a period of fluctuation is a positive sign, indicating that your liver function may be stabilizing. However, the transient elevation in June could have been influenced by several factors, including dietary changes, liver inflammation, or even the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). While TCM can have various effects on the body, it is crucial to discuss any herbal medications or treatments you are undergoing with your healthcare provider, as certain herbs can impact liver function or interact with other medications.
In terms of next steps, it is advisable to continue monitoring your AFP levels, especially if there are any changes in your liver function tests or if you experience any symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss. Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.
If your AFP levels remain stable and within the normal range, and if your liver function tests continue to show improvement, you may not need to pursue further invasive testing at this time. However, if there are any significant changes in your health status or if your AFP levels begin to rise again, further investigations, such as imaging studies or a referral to a specialist, may be warranted.
In summary, while your recent AFP levels are encouraging, continued monitoring is essential. Discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider, especially regarding the potential impact of any treatments you are undergoing. Regular follow-ups will help ensure that any underlying issues are identified and managed appropriately, allowing you to maintain optimal health.
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