Only 50-60% of HCC's have elevated AFPs. 21 is certainly not very elevated, and I wouldn't worry about it.
JLynch30 said
May 24, 2013
But with an AFP of only 21?
mallani said
May 23, 2013
Hi John,
Yes, it is possible for HCC's to develop that quickly. They may be uni or multifocal, and MRI with contrast can detect a 5-8mm tumour. This is much more sensitive than Ultrasound, and IV contrast is needed as HCC's have a distinctive vascular pattern. As a rough guide, HCC's may double in size every 6 months. The MRI has probably been requested as your AFP is elevated. Good luck.
JLynch30 said
May 22, 2013
They are going to do an MRI. I just had one 2 months ago - can tumors develope that quickly?
Hi John,
Only 50-60% of HCC's have elevated AFPs. 21 is certainly not very elevated, and I wouldn't worry about it.
But with an AFP of only 21?
Hi John,
Yes, it is possible for HCC's to develop that quickly. They may be uni or multifocal, and MRI with contrast can detect a 5-8mm tumour. This is much more sensitive than Ultrasound, and IV contrast is needed as HCC's have a distinctive vascular pattern. As a rough guide, HCC's may double in size every 6 months. The MRI has probably been requested as your AFP is elevated. Good luck.
They are going to do an MRI. I just had one 2 months ago - can tumors develope that quickly?