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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced primarily in the liver and yolk sac of a developing fetus, and its levels can indicate certain cancers and non-cancerous liver conditions.

Quick summary

AFP is a biomarker used to diagnose and monitor liver cancer and germ cell tumors.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
ng/mL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche AFP, Abbott AFP, Siemens AFP, Beckman AFP
interpretation: {"text":"0–10 ng/mL: AFP levels within this range are generally considered normal for adults.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":">10 ng/mL: Elevated AFP levels may indicate liver disease, cancer, or other conditions and warrant further investigation.","label":"Elevated"}

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a glycoprotein that is normally produced during fetal development by the liver and yolk sac. In healthy adults, AFP levels are typically low.

Elevated AFP levels can be indicative of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of primary liver cancer, as well as germ cell tumors such as testicular and ovarian cancer.

AFP testing is often used in conjunction with imaging studies and other tumor markers to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of these conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What conditions can cause elevated AFP levels?
Elevated AFP levels can be caused by hepatocellular carcinoma, germ cell tumors, and non-cancerous liver conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis.
How is an AFP test performed?
An AFP test is a simple blood test that measures the amount of AFP in the bloodstream.
  1. 1
    Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor MarkerSource
  2. 2
    AFP TestSource

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy