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Alpha-Fetoprotein, Fluid — Arbitrary Concentration

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

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

Quick summary

["This test measures AFP in body fluid; an elevated result may prompt further evaluation but is not diagnostic of cancer by itself."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44910-8
Short code
AFP Fld-aCnc
Synonyms
AFP Fld-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 present in blood and certain body fluids. This test measures the AFP concentration in a fluid specimen, such as fluid from the abdomen or another body cavity.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation for a mass, unexplained fluid buildup, or a suspected cancer. The AFP result is interpreted alongside the type of fluid collected, symptoms, imaging, and other laboratory findings.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the submitted fluid using a validated testing method. The report identifies the specimen type and provides the measured AFP concentration in the laboratory's reporting units.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on how the fluid is collected. Follow your clinician's instructions, including any fasting requirements and instructions for returning a collected sample. Some fluids require removal by a clinician using a needle or drainage procedure.

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

AFP in fluid

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a blood AFP test?
No. This test measures AFP in body fluid rather than blood. The results are not necessarily interchangeable and should be interpreted for the specific specimen collected.
Does an elevated AFP result mean I have cancer?
No. Elevated AFP is not specific to cancer and can have other causes. Your clinician will consider symptoms, imaging, blood test results, and the type of fluid tested.
Why did the laboratory report arbitrary units?
Arbitrary units express the AFP measurement using the laboratory's testing method. Results are most useful when compared with other results from the same laboratory and interpreted by your clinician.
  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