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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

An AFP blood test measures alpha-fetoprotein, a protein made mainly by the liver and fetal tissues. It can help evaluate liver conditions and track certain cancers.

Quick summary

["AFP is a blood protein used to help assess liver disease and monitor certain cancers, but an abnormal result alone is not diagnostic."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49762-8
Short code
AFP Plr-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP Plr-mCnc
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 (AFP) is a protein produced mainly by the liver and, during pregnancy, by the developing fetus. This test measures the amount of AFP in a blood sample.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order AFP to help evaluate liver disease or unexplained changes in liver tests. It may also be used to monitor people with liver cancer or certain other cancers and may be measured during pregnancy when clinically appropriate.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the liquid plasma portion is separated. A laboratory then measures the AFP concentration using a validated testing method.

How do I prepare for the test?

AFP testing usually requires no special preparation unless your clinician gives you specific instructions. Fasting is not generally required, but avoiding food around the time of the blood draw may be helpful if other liver tests are being performed.

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

Is a high AFP level proof that I have cancer?
No. Pregnancy, liver inflammation, cirrhosis, and other noncancerous conditions can also raise AFP. Your clinician will consider the result alongside other clinical and laboratory findings.
Why is my AFP test repeated over time?
Serial measurements can show whether AFP is rising, falling, or staying stable. This can help clinicians assess certain cancers and monitor response to treatment.
Does AFP test replace imaging or a cancer biopsy?
No. AFP is an additional tool, not a stand-alone diagnostic test. Imaging and, when appropriate, tissue sampling may still be needed to investigate an abnormal result.
  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