Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels In Normal Individuals - Relative Stability Over Time

Samples of serum were collected at 6- to 12-month intervals in two groups of healthy Africans and the amount of AFP measured by the radioimmunological method. The amounts present were found to remain fairly constant over time. The significance of this stability is discussed with particular reference of the highest levels of AFP observed in normal individuals in relation to primary liver carcinoma and the potential use of the method as a tool for early detection purposes.