Yolk Sac Carcinoma of the Ovary with Alpha Fetoprotein in Serum and Ascitic Fluid Demonstrated by Immunoosmophoresis

Abstract

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) synthesis, repressed in the newborn infant, is derepressed in patients with hepatomas and malignant teratomas. Teratoid neoplasms containing a significant vitelline component are most likely to give rise to serum AFP. A case supporting this hypothesis is presented. Immunoosmophoresis is a sensitive method for qualitative and semiquantitative analysis of serum and other body fluids for AFP. Its use is advocated in the diagnosis of ovarian tumors and in the postoperative follow-up of patients with proven AFP-producing tumors.