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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures AFP in blood. The test may help evaluate certain liver conditions and is also used as a tumor marker or in pregnancy screening.

Quick summary

["AFP is a blood protein that can rise in some liver conditions, certain tumors, and pregnancy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1834-1
Short code
AFP SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
AFP SerPl-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?

Alpha-fetoprotein, or AFP, is a protein made mainly by the liver and developing fetal tissue. This test measures the amount of AFP in serum or plasma.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be used to help evaluate liver disease and to monitor certain cancers, especially cancers involving the liver. It can also be measured as part of certain pregnancy screening tests.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, usually by a vein in the arm, and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The sample is then tested to determine the concentration of AFP.

How do I prepare for the test?

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

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 may occur with some forms of liver disease, including certain cancers of the liver. AFP can also be increased during pregnancy, and mild elevations may occur for other reasons. A low or normal result does not by itself rule out a disease, so results should be interpreted with your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.

Short name

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Does a high AFP level always mean cancer?
No. AFP can be elevated because of noncancerous liver conditions, pregnancy, or other circumstances. Your healthcare professional will interpret the result alongside other findings.
Can this test be used during pregnancy?
Yes. AFP may be measured as part of prenatal screening, but the result is interpreted differently depending on the stage of pregnancy and must be combined with other screening information.
Is fasting required for an AFP test?
Fasting is generally not required unless your healthcare professional specifically instructs you otherwise. Inform the laboratory if you are pregnant or recently pregnant.
  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