1.What is alpha-fetoprotein? What is the significance? Alpha-fetoprotein, also known as AFP, is a special protein contained in the blood during the embryonic period, which can only be synthesized in the liver cells of the fetus. Normal adult hepatocytes do not produce AFP, but when one has liver cancer, the ability to synthesize AFP is restored due to the endless growth of infantile hepatocytes. Therefore, AFP is currently used as a marker to assist in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, A-fetoprotein is not absolutely foolproof. Since 40% of patients with liver cancer have AFP (-), it cannot be assumed that if AFP (-) is detected, there is no liver cancer; nor can it be assumed that if AFP (+) is detected, there is definitely liver cancer, because some patients with active hepatitis, cirrhosis and reproductive system diseases may also show AFP (+). Therefore, the diagnosis of AFP should be made by a specialist, taking into account the patient’s clinical data, imaging and laboratory tests. 2.How to treat hepatic hemangioma? Hepatic hemangioma, fully known as hepatic cavernous hemangioma, is the most common benign tumor of the liver and most cases do not require treatment. There are several indications for surgery for hepatic hemangioma: (1) clear symptoms (e.g. left lobe hemangioma compressing the stomach and causing gastric distension and poor appetite); (2) diameter of hemangioma >10cm; (3) relative indications for surgery when the diameter of hemangioma is 5-10cm and combined with the following conditions: (1) dangerous location, close to the major blood vessels of the liver, and the growth of hemangioma is estimated to bring more risk in the future (2) the growth rate of the tumor is >2cm in diameter per year; (3) the tumor protrudes from the liver margin, especially below the costal arch.