Serum alpha fetoprotein in gynaecologic related malignancies

Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was examined by radioimmunoassay in 125 Japanese with various gynecological malignancies. Elevated serum AFP levels were frequently noted in patients with yolk sac tumor and solid teratoma, while normal AFP levels (less than or equal to 20 ng/ml) were seen in those with vulvar carcinoma, cervical carcinoma, endometrial carcinoma or ovarian carcinoma. Serum AFP levels were also within normal range in patients with uterine choriocarcinoma or ovarian dysgerminoma. The present findings indicate that serum AFP is an effective marker substance for the diagnosis of both yolk sac tumor and solid teratoma.