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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Aspirate — Arbitrary Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in a fluid sample taken from the body. It may help evaluate certain cancers when interpreted with other findings.

Quick summary

["An elevated AFP level in a fluid aspirate may raise concern for certain cancers but is not diagnostic by itself."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97745-4
Short code
AFP Aspirate-aCnc
Synonyms
AFP Aspirate-aCnc
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
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?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that can be increased by certain tumors, particularly some liver tumors and germ-cell tumors. This test measures the AFP concentration in an aspirate, which is a fluid sample collected from the body with a needle.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when fluid has collected in an area of the body and the cause needs to be evaluated. AFP may help determine whether certain types of cancer could be contributing, but it is usually interpreted together with symptoms, imaging, and other laboratory results.

How is the test performed?

The laboratory analyzes the aspirated fluid using a laboratory method to measure the amount of AFP present. The sample is collected by a healthcare professional and sent to the laboratory for testing.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the body area from which the aspirate will be collected. Your healthcare team will provide specific instructions and explain any restrictions, such as fasting or withholding certain medicines, if applicable.

Reference range

Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-Fetoprotein, Fluid Aspirate

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a serum AFP blood test?
No. This test measures AFP in a fluid aspirate, while a serum AFP test measures it in blood. Results from the two samples are interpreted differently.
Does an elevated AFP level mean I have cancer?
Not necessarily. Elevated AFP can occur with certain cancers and other conditions, so your clinician will consider the result alongside your medical history, imaging, and other tests.
How is the fluid aspirate collected?
A healthcare professional uses a needle to withdraw fluid from the affected area. The procedure and any preparation instructions depend on the collection site.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy