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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Whole Blood — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein in blood, a protein used in evaluating liver disease, pregnancy, and certain tumors.

Quick summary

["AFP is a non-specific marker that is interpreted alongside other findings and your medical history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54348-8
Short code
AFP BldCo-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP BldCo-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
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
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein made mainly by the developing fetal liver and certain other tissues. This test measures its concentration in a blood sample.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be used to evaluate liver disease, help assess certain tumors, or contribute to prenatal screening and monitoring. The reason for testing and the results must be interpreted in the context of age, pregnancy status, and other laboratory findings.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes a blood sample to determine the AFP concentration. No special measurement method can be confirmed from the abbreviated test code.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow the instructions provided by the laboratory or your healthcare professional. Tell the care team if you are pregnant, because AFP levels and their interpretation can differ during pregnancy.

Reference range

Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

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 (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Is a high AFP level the same as cancer?
No. AFP can rise because of liver disease, pregnancy, or certain tumors, and it does not identify cancer by itself. Additional testing is often needed to determine the cause.
Does this test diagnose liver disease?
No. AFP can provide information about liver status, but it is usually interpreted with liver tests, imaging, your medical history, and a physical examination.
Why are AFP results different during pregnancy?
Fetal and maternal tissues naturally produce AFP, so levels change throughout pregnancy. Prenatal AFP results are generally evaluated as part of screening rather than as a diagnosis by themselves.
  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