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Alpha-Fetoprotein, Aspirate — Mass Concentration

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

Measures alpha-fetoprotein in fluid drawn from a body site, such as a cyst. Results are interpreted according to the fluid source and clinical context.

Quick summary

["This test measures alpha-fetoprotein in an aspirated body fluid to help evaluate a cyst, mass, or other suspicious area."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97746-2
Short code
AFP Aspirate-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP Aspirate-mCnc
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 produced by certain tumors, as well as by the developing liver and fetal tissues. This test measures the concentration of AFP in fluid collected by needle from a cyst, mass, or other body site.

Why might I need this test?

An AFP measurement in an aspirate may be used to help evaluate a fluid-filled lesion or mass, particularly when imaging or examination does not identify its cause. It is usually interpreted with the fluid source, imaging findings, symptoms, and other tests.

How is the test performed?

A clinician collects fluid with a needle and sends it to a laboratory. The laboratory measures the amount of AFP in the fluid and reports a mass concentration, meaning the amount of AFP per unit volume of fluid.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the body site and the reason for aspiration. Fasting is generally not required for the AFP measurement itself, but follow the collection instructions and tell the clinician about pregnancy, liver disease, or any relevant medical history.

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

What does aspirate mean?
An aspirate is fluid that has been removed from the body with a needle or another collection method. Depending on the test, it may come from a cyst, an organ, or another fluid-containing area.
Is this the same as a blood AFP test?
No. This test measures AFP in an aspirated body fluid rather than blood. A fluid AFP result and a blood AFP result may have different interpretations and should not be treated as interchangeable.
Does an abnormal result mean that I have cancer?
No. Elevated AFP can have several causes, including noncancerous conditions. Your clinician will consider the result alongside the fluid source, imaging, symptoms, and any other relevant tests.
  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