Glossary
Alpha-fetoprotein
(AL-fuh-FEE-toh-PROH-teen)
A protein normally produced by a fetus. Alpha-fetoprotein levels are usually undetectable in the blood of healthy adult men or women (who are not pregnant). An elevated level of alpha-fetoprotein suggests the presence of either a primary liver cancer or germ cell tumor. Also called AFP.
Definition from the National Cancer Institute’s NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms.