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Alpha-Fetoprotein, Serum/Plasma — Immunoassay, Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in blood. AFP may be used to evaluate liver disease, pregnancy, and response to treatment for certain cancers.

Quick summary

["An elevated AFP result can occur in several conditions and must be interpreted with other findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83073-7
Short code
AFP SerPl IA-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP SerPl IA-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
Method
ia
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 blood test measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein produced primarily by the liver and fetal tissues. It is commonly used as a tumor marker and may also help evaluate certain liver conditions.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order AFP to monitor treatment for cancers such as liver cancer or certain germ-cell tumors. It may also be used in pregnancy evaluation or when liver disease is suspected.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected from a vein and sent to a laboratory. The laboratory uses an immunoassay to measure the amount of AFP in the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow any instructions provided by your clinician or testing laboratory. Tell the healthcare team if you are pregnant or could be pregnant, as this can affect how the result is interpreted.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum/Plasma

Frequently asked questions

Is a high AFP result proof that I have cancer?
No. Elevated AFP can result from cancer, chronic liver disease, pregnancy, and other conditions. Your clinician will interpret the result with the rest of your medical evaluation.
Why is AFP tested during pregnancy?
AFP is produced during fetal development and is measured as part of certain prenatal screenings. Abnormal results may prompt additional testing and do not always indicate a fetal problem.
Does the laboratory provide a reference range?
Yes. AFP ranges vary by laboratory and may differ by age, pregnancy status, and the purpose of the test. Your healthcare professional can explain the range printed on your report.
  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