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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein in blood. AFP may be used to evaluate liver disease and help monitor certain cancers or pregnancy-related conditions.

Quick summary

["An elevated AFP result can have several causes and should be interpreted alongside other findings by your clinician."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110943-8
Short code
AFP Msmt Amn
Synonyms
AFP Msmt Amn
Category
liver
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
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
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-fetoprotein, or AFP, is a protein made mainly by the developing liver and fetus. This blood test measures its concentration in serum or plasma.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be ordered to evaluate certain liver conditions, assist with monitoring for specific cancers, or assess certain aspects of a pregnancy. It is often interpreted together with other tests and clinical information.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the AFP concentration. No special laboratory method is implied by the abbreviated test code.

How do I prepare for the test?

AFP usually requires no special preparation. Follow any instructions from your healthcare provider, particularly if the test is being used to assess a pregnancy.

Reference range

Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: fluid

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 (AFP) Test

Frequently asked questions

Is a high AFP level proof that I have cancer?
No. AFP can rise for several reasons, including pregnancy and liver disease, so an elevated result alone does not establish a cancer diagnosis.
Why is my AFP test repeated over time?
Repeating the test can help clinicians confirm an unexpected result or track changes over time. The trend is often more useful than a single measurement.
Does AFP have the same meaning during pregnancy?
No. AFP is produced during fetal development, so pregnancy can affect the result. Obstetric clinicians interpret it differently and often consider it together with ultrasound and other screening information.
  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