Test Overview
Test Methodology

Chemiluminescent Immunoassay (CLIA)

Test Usage

CSF levels of AFP are a useful aid in the diagnosis of primary central nervous system (CNS) germ cell tumors (GCTs). These account for approximately 4 % of primary brain tumors in children. AFP elevation in CSF occurs in approximately 70 % of these tumors. Concurrent testing of beta-HCG is recommended to improve the sensitivity for detecting these CNS tumors. CSF levels of AFP will also be elevated with brain metastases of testicular cancer.

Reference Range *

<2.2 ng/mL

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily, 24 hours
Analytic Time

2 hours

Soft Order Code
AFCSF
MiChart Code
Alpha-Fetoprotein, CSF
Synonyms
  • AFP, CSF
Laboratory
Chemical Pathology
Section
Automation
Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

Collect spinal fluid, refrigerate.

Normal Volume
0.5 mL CSF
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL CSF
Additional Information

Tested by a chemiluminescent immunoassay manufactured by Siemens Healthineers, performed on Atellica IM system. Results determined from different manufacturers and/or methods may not be comparable.

Billing
CPT Code
86316
Fee Code
JA018
LOINC
1833-3
NY State Approved
No