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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum/Plasma — Multiples of the Median (MoM)

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

This blood test measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in serum or plasma and reports it as multiples of the median (MoM), commonly used in prenatal screening.

Quick summary

["An AFP MoM result helps assess the likelihood of certain fetal conditions but must be interpreted with other screening information."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20450-3
Short code
AFP MoM SerPl
Synonyms
AFP 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 that can be measured in blood. The MoM, or multiples of the median, form adjusts the AFP result for factors such as gestational age and compares it with results from a reference population.

Why might I need this test?

Maternal serum AFP screening may be used to assess the risk of neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects, and certain chromosome conditions in a pregnancy. In nonpregnant patients, AFP may also be measured as a tumor marker or to help assess certain liver conditions.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is analyzed for AFP. The laboratory may report the result as a concentration or as an MoM value adjusted for pregnancy-related factors.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but you should follow your clinician's instructions. If the test is part of prenatal screening, tell the laboratory if you are pregnant and provide relevant information such as your gestational age, weight, diabetes status, and whether the pregnancy involves multiple fetuses.

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 (MoM), Serum/Plasma

Frequently asked questions

What does an AFP MoM result mean?
It shows how your AFP measurement compares with the median for a similar population at the same stage of pregnancy. It is a screening measure rather than a definitive diagnosis.
Does an abnormal AFP result mean my baby has a condition?
No. An abnormal result indicates that further evaluation may be needed, but it can also reflect factors such as gestational age, maternal weight, diabetes, or a multiple pregnancy.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually not necessary. Follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider, especially if the test is part of prenatal screening.
  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