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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) — Mass Concentration

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

Measures alpha-fetoprotein, a protein produced mainly by the liver and developing fetal tissues, to help evaluate liver disease, pregnancy, and certain tumors.

Quick summary

["An elevated AFP result may reflect liver disease, pregnancy, or a tumor, but it must be interpreted alongside other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49761-0
Short code
AFP Prt-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP Prt-mCnc
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?

This test measures the concentration of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in a blood sample. AFP is a protein made primarily by the liver and by fetal tissues during development.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be measured to evaluate liver disease, help assess certain liver or germ-cell tumors, and monitor some aspects of pregnancy. It may also be used as part of newborn screening.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and the laboratory measures the amount of AFP, usually with an immunoassay. No special laboratory method is identified by the test code.

How do I prepare for the test?

AFP testing usually does not require fasting or other special preparation. Follow any instructions from your healthcare provider or laboratory, and tell them if you are pregnant.

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 can occur with pregnancy, chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and certain germ-cell tumors. A low AFP is less commonly significant, and results vary with age and clinical context. An abnormal result does not establish a diagnosis by itself and should be reviewed with other laboratory findings, imaging, and your medical history.

Short name

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Is alpha-fetoprotein the same as AFP?
Yes. AFP is the standard abbreviation for alpha-fetoprotein.
Does an elevated AFP mean I have cancer?
No. Pregnancy and several noncancerous liver conditions can also raise AFP, so additional testing is needed to interpret an abnormal result.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Usually not. AFP testing generally does not require fasting, but follow any specific preparation instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
  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