[Hereditary persistence of alpha-fetoprotein: report of a case]

Abstract

Introduction: Hereditary persistence of alpha-fetoprotein is a rare disorder which exists with no simultaneous disease. The tenth case in the world (two brothers with seminoma and their father) is documented and a complete literature review was done.

Exegesis: It is transmitted as an autosomal dominant; a disease point mutation has been identified. The failure to recognize hereditary persistence of alpha-fetoprotein sometimes involves unjustified treatments.

Conclusion: The occurrence of this situation is probably underestimated and it could explain residual levels of alpha-fetoprotein.