Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein and Its Association with Glycemic Control, Liver Enzymes, and Renal Function among Adult Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is widely used as a tumor marker, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma; however, its levels may be influenced by non-malignant metabolic and biochemical factors. The relationship between AFP and glycemic status, liver enzymes, and renal function remains incompletely understood. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum AFP levels and glycemic control, liver enzymes, and renal function among adult patients. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 adult patients (130 males, 70 females) from January to December 2024 at a tertiary-level cancer hospital. Biochemical parameters including fasting blood glucose, liver enzymes, renal function markers, lipid profile, and hematological indices were analyzed. AFP levels were measured using immunoassay techniques. Data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and correlation analysis was performed to assess associations between AFP and other variables. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean AFP level was 18.72 ± 96.45 ng/mL, showing a highly skewed distribution. Significant positive correlations were observed between AFP and fasting blood glucose (r = 0.28, p = 0.002), ALT (r = 0.32, p < 0.001), AST (r = 0.25, p = 0.004), creatinine (r = 0.19, p = 0.021), and urea (r = 0.22, p = 0.011). Abnormal AFP levels were more frequent among females (38.6%) compared to males (22.3%), while renal abnormalities were more prevalent in males. Conclusion: Serum AFP levels are significantly associated with metabolic, hepatic, and renal parameters. These findings suggest that AFP elevation may reflect underlying metabolic and organ dysfunction rather than malignancy alone, highlighting the need for cautious clinical interpretation