Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a useful tumor marker. In which condition is an ELEVATED serum AFP NOT expected?
- A Hepatocellular carcinoma
- B Yolk sac tumor (endodermal sinus tumor)
- C Pure seminoma ✓
- D Embryonal carcinoma
Correct answer: C. Pure seminoma
Explanation
Pure seminoma does not produce AFP; any AFP elevation in a testicular germ cell tumor indicates a non-seminomatous component (yolk sac, embryonal carcinoma, or mixed GCT). Hepatocellular carcinoma and yolk sac tumors reliably produce AFP. Embryonal carcinoma may produce AFP but more characteristically produces beta-hCG.
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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