Skip to content

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein in a body fluid to help evaluate certain cancers and other conditions in context with other findings.

Quick summary

["An elevated AFP level in fluid may support further evaluation for a tumor, but it is not diagnostic by itself."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11207-8
Short code
AFP Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP Fld-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?

This test measures the concentration of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein that can be produced by certain tumors as well as developing fetuses, in a sample of body fluid.

Why might I need this test?

AFP testing on fluid may help assess whether a fluid collection or effusion is associated with a tumor. It is usually interpreted together with fluid cytology, imaging, symptoms, and other laboratory results rather than as a stand-alone cancer test.

How is the test performed?

A clinician obtains an appropriate fluid sample, which is sent to a laboratory. The laboratory measures the AFP concentration using a laboratory method such as immunoassay, and the result is reported with the applicable reference information.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid being collected and whether it is obtained by a clinician or through a drainage procedure. Fasting is generally not required, but follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.

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)

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as an AFP blood test?
No. This test measures AFP in a body fluid. Blood AFP testing is used for different purposes, including certain prenatal screenings and liver evaluation.
Does an elevated AFP level mean I have cancer?
Not necessarily. Elevated AFP can occur with several conditions, so your clinician will consider it alongside the fluid analysis, imaging, and other results.
Does the test require fasting?
Fasting is usually unnecessary, but the preparation may depend on how and where the fluid sample is collected. Confirm any instructions with your healthcare team.
  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