Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Antigen, Tissue — Qualitative Immunostain
A pathology test that detects alpha-fetoprotein in a tissue sample using immunohistochemistry, helping evaluate AFP-producing tumors.
["This test shows whether alpha-fetoprotein is present in tissue examined by a pathologist."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10459-6
- Short code
- AFP Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- AFP Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- CPT
- 82105
- SNOMED
- 394971007
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This is a qualitative tissue test that uses a labeled antibody to detect alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein that may be produced by certain tumors. It is different from the blood AFP test.
Why might I need this test?
A pathologist may order this test when examining tissue for a tumor that could produce AFP. It can help distinguish among tumors or support a diagnosis when combined with the tissue appearance and other laboratory findings.
How is the test performed?
A tissue sample from a biopsy or surgery is processed and placed on a microscope slide. AFP-specific antibodies are applied, and the pathologist examines the tissue for staining that indicates AFP is present.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for the stain itself because the tissue has already been collected. Follow the instructions provided for your biopsy or surgery, and ask the ordering clinician if you have questions.
Reference range
Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result means AFP was detected in the examined tissue and may support the presence of an AFP-producing tumor. A negative result means AFP was not detected with this method, but it does not by itself rule out a tumor. Results must be interpreted with the tissue findings, symptoms, imaging, and other tests.
Short name
Tissue AFP Immunostain
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a serum AFP blood test?
What does a positive AFP tissue stain mean?
Does a negative result mean I do not have cancer?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy