What Does an Alpha-Fetoprotein Level of 9.9 Mean?

Alpha-fetoprotein level of 9.9 falls within the normal range. Under normal conditions, the reference value for alpha-fetoprotein is 0-20μg/L. In patients with liver cancer, the level of alpha-fetoprotein may increase significantly, sometimes up to 10 or even 20 times higher. Elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein do not necessarily indicate liver cancer, as they can also be caused by hepatitis or liver cirrhosis. If abdominal ultrasonography or imaging examination suggests the presence of a lesion in the liver, alpha-fetoprotein levels greater than 200 or more may be significant.

The purpose of checking alpha-fetoprotein levels is to determine whether the liver function is normal and to facilitate the diagnosis of certain malignant diseases. If a problem is diagnosed, timely treatment can be administered. Taking elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels as an example, several management methods can be adopted upon discovery:

(1) Adjusting Mental Attitude: The reasons for elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels can be physiological, pathological, or due to testing errors. In the case of elevated levels, it is important to maintain a good mental attitude and avoid excessive anxiety, which is conducive to treatment. To avoid testing errors, it is advisable to understand the precautions for measuring alpha-fetoprotein before testing and minimize the possibility of errors. This not only facilitates accurate examination but also avoids misdiagnosis.

(2) Medication: After determining the cause of elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels, some patients may require medication. However, the choice and administration of medication should be guided by a doctor. It is crucial to avoid self-medication or incorrect medication, which may lead to deterioration of the condition.