alpha fetoprotein

noun

Meaning

A protein produced by the liver of a developing fetus that circulates in the blood and can be measured to assess fetal health or detect certain cancers in adults.

Examples

The physician ordered an alpha fetoprotein test to monitor the pregnancy.
Elevated levels of alpha fetoprotein in an adult can sometimes indicate the presence of liver cancer.

Synonyms: AFP, fetal protein

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alpha fetoprotein

noun

Pronunciation: ˌælfə ˌfiːtəʊˈprəʊtiːn

Definition

A protein produced by the liver of a developing fetus that circulates in the blood and can be measured to assess fetal health or detect certain cancers in adults.

Examples

The physician ordered an alpha fetoprotein test to monitor the pregnancy.
Elevated levels of alpha fetoprotein in an adult can sometimes indicate the presence of liver cancer.
Genetic counselors explained that an abnormal alpha fetoprotein result does not always mean there is a serious problem.

Synonyms of alpha fetoprotein

Words with a similar meaning to alpha fetoprotein:

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