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Glite Dictionary
fetoprotein

fetoprotein

1 9.9
A protein found in an unborn baby and sometimes in adults with certain cancers
  • noun
  • /ˌfiːtəˈproʊtiːn/
  • Specialized
translation icon : fetoproteína
  • This incidence has increased over the past two decades and is identified through imaging studies, jaundice, and elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels in the blood.
  • alpha fetoprotein

Examples

  • Antenatal fetal diagnosis, such as maternal alpha-fetoprotein screening and amniocentesis, is predicated on the availability of induced abortion.

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  • The doctor ordered a test to measure the levels of fetoprotein in the mother's blood during pregnancy.

  • High levels of fetoprotein can indicate certain types of cancers in adults.

  • During the ultrasound, the nurse explained that fetoprotein helps identify potential health issues in the fetus.

Compounds

alpha fetoprotein
  • Specialized
6.5

Protein made in an unborn baby that when high can show birth defects such as spina bifida

alpha fetoprotein
  • Specialized
6.8

Protein measured in adults to help find and check some cancers, especially liver cancer

Surface Forms

fetoprotein singular
fetoproteins plural

Morphology

fetoprotein = fetus + protein (transparent) = feto + protein

Formed by the combining form 'feto-' (fetus) + 'protein'; meaning 'protein associated with the fetus' is directly inferable.

Etymology

The word fetoprotein breaks into feto- meaning 'young', as in fetus, and protein meaning a body 'building block'. So, fetoprotein is a protein made in the fetus and sometimes appears in adults with certain cancers, which is why doctors watch its level.