Genetic screening for AFP gene variants is advised in cases with unexplained persistent AFP levels to avoid inappropriate treatment for suspected malignancies.
ABSTRACT Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein that is produced by the liver and yolk sac during fetal development. Its levels are usually raised in malignant conditions. Hereditary persistence of AFP (HPAFP) is a rare benign condition with elevated levels of AFP. It is inherited in a dominant mode with complete penetrance and is usually not associated with any clinical disability. We report two individuals with elevated levels of AFP harboring the -119G>A polymorphism in the AFP gene. A genetic screening to rule out variants in the AFP gene is advised in cases with unexplained persistent AFP levels to avoid inappropriate treatment and surgical options.
Deshpande et al. (2017) studied this question.