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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Plasma

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

A blood test that measures alpha-fetoprotein, a protein that may rise in certain liver conditions, some other cancers, and pregnancy.

Quick summary

["An elevated AFP result can be important, but it is not diagnostic by itself and must be interpreted with your medical history and other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19172-6
Short code
AFP Plr-aCnc
Synonyms
AFP Plr-aCnc
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?

This test measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in your blood. AFP is a protein made mainly by the developing liver and fetus.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be used to help evaluate certain liver conditions, monitor people being treated for liver cancer or another cancer, or assess the course of a pregnancy. Your clinician will decide when this test is appropriate based on your situation.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory uses a laboratory method to measure the concentration of AFP in the plasma portion of the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

This test usually requires no special preparation unless your clinician gives you different instructions. Tell the laboratory if you are pregnant, because pregnancy itself can increase AFP levels.

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)

Frequently asked questions

Does an elevated AFP level mean I have cancer?
No. AFP can also be elevated because of pregnancy, benign liver conditions, or other circumstances. Your clinician will interpret the result with your symptoms, examination, and other tests.
Why is this test sometimes checked during pregnancy?
AFP from the mother and fetus enters the maternal bloodstream, and changes in its level may help assess the risk of certain birth-related conditions. It is only one part of prenatal screening or evaluation.
Can AFP levels be used to monitor treatment?
Yes. Serial AFP measurements may help monitor certain cancers or liver conditions, especially when the result is interpreted alongside imaging and other findings.
  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