**Core Concept**
Fibrolamellar carcinoma (FLC) is a rare subtype of primary liver cancer characterized by its distinct histological features and clinical behavior. Unlike hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), FLC tends to occur in younger individuals and has a relatively better prognosis.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Fibrolamellar carcinoma often presents with elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels, but these levels are typically not as high as those seen in HCC. In fact, AFP levels in FLC are usually less than 1000 ng/mL, which contrasts with the significantly elevated levels seen in HCC. This distinction is crucial for diagnosing and managing liver cancers. The mechanism underlying the different AFP levels is not entirely clear, but it is thought to be related to the distinct genetic and molecular alterations present in FLC and HCC.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Fibrolamellar carcinoma is actually more common in young males, not females. This characteristic helps differentiate FLC from other liver cancers, such as HCC, which tends to occur in older individuals with a higher male-to-female ratio.
**Option B:** While FLC has a relatively better prognosis than HCC, this statement is somewhat misleading. FLC is still a highly aggressive cancer with a high recurrence rate, and its prognosis is not always better than that of HCC.
**Option D:** Fibrolamellar carcinoma indeed occurs in younger individuals, typically between the ages of 10 and 35 years. This characteristic helps distinguish FLC from other liver cancers, which tend to occur in older populations.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to remember that FLC often presents with elevated AFP levels, but these levels are usually less than 1000 ng/mL. This distinction is critical for diagnosing and managing liver cancers, as it can help differentiate FLC from HCC.

**Correct Answer:**
✓ Correct Answer: C. AFP levels always greater than 1000