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HelpTest Code AFPPT Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Peritoneal Fluid
Reporting Name
AFP, Peritoneal FluidPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Useful For
An adjunct to cytology to differentiate between malignancy-related ascites and benign causes of ascites formation
Method Name
Immunoenzymatic Assay
Specimen Required
Container/Tube: Plain, plastic, screw-top tube
Specimen Volume: 2 mL
Specimen Type
PeritonealSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL (Samples <0.5 mL may be rejected)
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | Special Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peritoneal | Frozen (preferred) | 90 days | |
| Ambient | 7 days | ||
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
Reject Due To
| Gross hemolysis | Reject |
| Gross icterus | OK |
Reference Values
An interpretive report will be provided.
Interpretation
A peritoneal fluid alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) concentration greater than 6.0 ng/mL is suspicious but not diagnostic of ascites related to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This clinical decision limit cutoff yielded a sensitivity of 58%, specificity of 96% in a study of 137 patients presenting with ascites. AFP concentrations were significantly higher in ascites caused by HCC. Ascites caused by malignancies other than HCC routinely had AFP concentrations less than 6.0 ng/mL. Therefore, negative results should be interpreted with caution.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Saturday
Report Available
1 to 3 daysTest Classification
This test has been modified from the manufacturer's instructions. Its performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
86316
LOINC Code Information
| Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| AFPPT | AFP, Peritoneal Fluid | 49761-0 |
| Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
|---|---|---|
| AFPPN | AFP, Peritoneal Fluid | 49761-0 |
| SITEF | Site | 39111-0 |
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request (T729) with the specimen.