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Test Code Billings Clinic: 8067 Mayo: AFPSF Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Spinal Fluid

Reporting Name

Alpha-Fetoprotein, CSF

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester

Useful For

An adjunct in the diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) germinomas and meningeal carcinomatosis

 

Evaluating the presence of germ-cell tumors in the CNS, in conjunction with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) beta-human chorionic gonadotropin measurement

 

A supplement to CSF cytologic analysis

Method Name

Immunoenzymatic Assay


Specimen Required


Container/Tube: Sterile vial

Preferred: Vial number 1

Acceptable: Any vial

Specimen Volume: 1 mL


Specimen Type

CSF

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.5 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time Special Container
CSF Frozen (preferred) 7 days
  Refrigerated  7 days

Reject Due To

Gross hemolysis Reject
Gross icterus OK

Reference Values

<1.5 ng/mL

Values for alpha-fetoprotein in cerebrospinal fluid have not been formally established for newborns and infants. The available literature indicates that by 2 months of age, levels comparable to adults should be reached.(Ann Clin Biochem 2005;42:24-29)

Interpretation

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) concentrations that exceed the upper end of normal are consistent with the presence of central nervous system (CNS) germinoma. The presence of germinomas in the CNS, CNS involvement in metastatic cancer, and meningeal carcinomatosis may result in increased cerebrospinal fluid AFP concentrations in approximately 20% of germinomas.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Saturday

Report Available

1 to 3 days

Test 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
AFPSF Alpha-Fetoprotein, CSF 1833-3

 

Result ID Test Result Name Result LOINC Value
AFSF Alpha-Fetoprotein, CSF 1833-3

Forms

If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Oncology Test Request (T729) with the specimen.