Liver Cancer in Advanced Stages with Normal Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a commonly used tumor marker for liver cancer. However, AFP levels are elevated in only about 60% to 70% of liver cancer patients. This means that in approximately 30% to 40% of cases, AFP levels remain within the normal range, even in the presence of liver cancer. Therefore, a normal AFP level does not rule out the possibility of liver cancer.

There are also conditions other than liver cancer that can cause elevated AFP levels. For example, active hepatitis, cirrhosis, and decompensated liver function stages can all lead to an increase in AFP. Cirrhosis during its active phase may also result in elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels, making it difficult to distinguish from liver cancer based solely on this marker. Thus, AFP alone should not be considered the definitive criterion for diagnosing advanced liver cancer.

For a comprehensive diagnosis of liver cancer, doctors typically rely on imaging studies, biochemical tests, and physical examinations. In advanced stages of liver cancer, patients may no longer be eligible for surgery due to the progression of the disease or poor liver function. However, there are still several treatment options available, such as interventional therapy, radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. These treatments can significantly improve the quality of life and extend survival for patients with late-stage liver cancer.