Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Maternal Serum/Plasma — Diabetes- and Weight-Adjusted
A maternal blood screening test for alpha-fetoprotein, adjusted for maternal diabetes and weight, used with other prenatal screening results to assess fetal risk.
["This prenatal screening test helps identify pregnancies that may need further evaluation for certain fetal conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43996-8
- Short code
- AFP Diabetes+wt adj MoM SerPl
- Synonyms
- AFP Diabetes+wt 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?
Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein is a blood test performed during pregnancy. The result may be adjusted for factors such as maternal weight and diabetes before it is interpreted alongside other prenatal screening information.
Why might I need this test?
This test is used as part of prenatal screening to help assess the risk of certain fetal conditions, including neural tube defects and some chromosome disorders. An unusual result does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from the mother and the AFP level is measured in the laboratory. The result is compared with expected levels for the current stage of pregnancy and may be adjusted for maternal weight and diabetes.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is generally not required, and you can usually continue your normal diet. Follow your prenatal care provider's instructions, particularly if the test was ordered as part of a specific screening panel.
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 higher-than-expected AFP level may be associated with open neural tube defects, certain abdominal wall defects, or pregnancy loss, although other factors can also raise AFP. A lower-than-expected level may occur with some chromosome disorders, including Down syndrome. An abnormal screening result usually requires review by your prenatal care provider and may lead to ultrasound or diagnostic testing.
Short name
Maternal Serum AFP, Adjusted
Frequently asked questions
Does an abnormal AFP result mean my baby has a condition?
Why are my weight and diabetes taken into account?
When is maternal serum AFP usually measured?
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