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Alpha-Fetoprotein, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures AFP in blood to help evaluate liver disease, certain liver tumors, and pregnancy-related risk.

Quick summary

["An abnormal AFP result may reflect pregnancy, liver damage, or a tumor and must be interpreted with your clinical situation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111004-8
Short code
AFP Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
AFP Msmt 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 made mainly by the developing liver and also by certain fetal tissues. This blood test measures the amount of AFP in serum or plasma.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be used to help evaluate chronic liver disease, investigate a liver mass, or monitor treatment for certain liver cancers. It may also be included in prenatal blood testing to assess the risk of some chromosome or birth-related conditions.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory uses an immunoassay or a similar method to measure the AFP concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow any instructions from your healthcare professional or laboratory. Tell the laboratory if you are pregnant, because pregnancy can normally raise the AFP level.

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.

An elevated AFP level can occur during pregnancy and with chronic liver injury, cirrhosis, or some liver tumors. A lower-than-expected AFP level during certain prenatal screenings may indicate an increased risk of a chromosome condition, such as Down syndrome. AFP results should be interpreted with other laboratory findings, imaging, and your medical history.

Short name

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Does a high AFP result mean I have liver cancer?
No. AFP can rise for many reasons, including pregnancy, chronic liver disease, and benign liver conditions. Additional tests are usually needed to determine the cause.
Is fasting required for an AFP test?
Fasting is generally not required. Follow the preparation instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory, particularly for prenatal screening.
Why does my AFP result vary between tests?
AFP can change with liver function, pregnancy, treatment, and the laboratory method used. Your clinician will consider these factors and any trends when interpreting your results.
  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