Q) Which of the following statements about alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in pure embryonal cell carcinoma is most accurate?
✅ Answer: c) AFP is elevated in 50-80% of cases of pure embryonal cell carcinoma.
🔍 Explanation:
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a **tumor marker** commonly elevated in **non-seminomatous germ cell tumors** (NSGCTs), which includes **embryonal cell carcinoma**. AFP levels are elevated in approximately **50-80%** of cases of **pure embryonal carcinoma**, and this elevation is associated with the **yolk sac tumor component** that is often seen within these tumors.
🔍 Explanation:
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a **tumor marker** commonly elevated in **non-seminomatous germ cell tumors** (NSGCTs), which includes **embryonal cell carcinoma**. AFP levels are elevated in approximately **50-80%** of cases of **pure embryonal carcinoma**, and this elevation is associated with the **yolk sac tumor component** that is often seen within these tumors.
- AFP is a **glycoprotein** produced by the fetal liver and yolk sac, and its levels are typically **low in adults**.
- It is elevated in conditions like **liver cancer**, **germ cell tumors**, and **yolk sac tumors** (which may be seen with embryonal carcinoma).
- In **seminomas**, AFP is **usually normal**, and they are typically not associated with AFP elevation.
- Correct interpretation of AFP levels is important for **diagnosis**, **monitoring treatment response**, and **detecting recurrence** in **germ cell tumors**.