Is AFP elevated in testicular cancer?
Many testicular cancers make high levels of certain proteins called tumor markers, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). When these tumor markers are in the blood, it suggests that there’s a testicular tumor.
Does testicular cancer show in blood test?
To help confirm a diagnosis, you may need a series of blood tests to detect certain hormones in your blood, known as markers. Testicular cancer often produces these markers, so it may indicate you have the condition if they’re in your blood.
What is the normal range for testicular cancer markers?
Table 1
| Tumor marker | Size (daltons) | Normal range |
|---|---|---|
| AFP | 70,000 | <40 ug/I |
| hCG | 38,000 | <5 IU/I |
| LDH | 134,000 | 1.5–3.2 ukat/I |
Do AFP levels fluctuate?
Fluctuations in serum AFP levels within the normal range occur in patients during this follow-up period, causing anxiety about relapse. Patients frequently question the significance of an increase in AFP within normal levels and whether it predicts for relapse.
Why is LDH elevated in testicular cancer?
LDH is expressed on chromosome 12p, which is often amplified in testis cancer cells. LDH is less specific for testis cancer than HCG or AFP. However, elevated LDH levels are correlated to high tumor burden in seminoma and recurrence in NSGCT.
Can you have testicular cancer with normal tumor markers?
Elevated levels of these tumor markers may indicate testicular cancer or another type of cancer. However, it is possible to have testicular cancer and have normal tumor marker levels. It is also possible to have elevated levels of these markers without having cancer.
What is considered a high AFP level?
AFP is measured in nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). An AFP level between 10 ng/mL to 20 ng/mL is normal for adults. An extremely high level of AFP in your blood—greater than 400 ng/mL—could be a sign of liver tumors.
What is LDH in testicular cancer?
Testicular Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) LDH is expressed on chromosome 12p, which is often amplified in testis cancer cells. LDH is less specific for testis cancer than HCG or AFP. However, elevated LDH levels are correlated to high tumor burden in seminoma and recurrence in NSGCT.