Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum/Plasma — Diabetes-Adjusted Multiple of the Median (MoM)
This prenatal blood screening result compares maternal serum AFP with the expected level for gestational age, with an adjustment for diabetes.
["A diabetes-adjusted AFP MoM is a screening value that helps assess certain fetal and chromosomal risks when interpreted with other prenatal tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43998-4
- Short code
- AFP Diabetes adj MoM SerPl
- Synonyms
- AFP Diabetes adj MoM SerPl
- 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 produced during pregnancy by the developing fetus and placenta. This result expresses the AFP level as a multiple of the median (MoM) expected for the current gestational age, with an adjustment used when the patient has diabetes.
Why might I need this test?
It is generally used as part of prenatal screening to help assess risks such as neural tube defects, certain abdominal wall defects, and some chromosomal conditions. It does not diagnose a condition by itself and is usually interpreted with ultrasound and other screening or diagnostic tests.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory measures AFP in the serum or plasma. The laboratory then compares the result with a gestational-age-specific median and applies a diabetes-related adjustment when appropriate.
How do I prepare for the test?
No fasting or special preparation is usually required for the AFP blood draw. Follow the timing instructions provided by your prenatal care team, and make sure the laboratory knows about any diabetes because the interpretation depends on this adjustment.
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.
An AFP MoM that is higher than expected may be associated with neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects, or other placental and fetal conditions. A lower-than-expected value may be associated with some chromosomal conditions. An abnormal screening result does not confirm a diagnosis and may reflect an incorrect due date, multiple gestation, or other factors.
Short name
Diabetes-Adjusted AFP (MoM)
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose Down syndrome?
Why is my result adjusted for diabetes?
What happens if the result is abnormal?
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.
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