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Alpha-Fetoprotein, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative

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

A qualitative blood test that checks for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein associated with fetal development, liver injury, and certain cancers.

Quick summary

["This test detects AFP in blood, but it is interpreted together with symptoms, other laboratory results, and imaging."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31993-9
Short code
AFP SerPl Ql
Synonyms
AFP SerPl Ql
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 (AFP) is a protein made mainly by the developing liver and fetus. This qualitative serum or plasma test checks whether AFP is present; a positive result is often followed by a quantitative AFP measurement and other clinical evaluation.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be checked in pregnancy as part of screening for certain birth conditions. It may also be used to help evaluate liver disease and, in some situations, monitor people previously diagnosed with liver cancer or certain germ-cell tumors.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein and analyzed in the laboratory for AFP. Because a qualitative result generally does not show how much AFP is present, your clinician may order a quantitative AFP test for more detailed interpretation.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually needed for a routine AFP blood test. Follow any pregnancy-specific or test-specific instructions from your healthcare professional, particularly if the AFP result will be used for prenatal screening.

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

Qualitative Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive AFP result mean I have cancer?
No. Many benign conditions, including pregnancy and some forms of liver disease, can cause AFP to be present or elevated. Your clinician will interpret the result with your medical history, other tests, and imaging if needed.
Is this the same test as the AFP screening test during pregnancy?
Both measure alpha-fetoprotein, but pregnancy screening is often interpreted as part of a panel that includes ultrasound and other markers. The meaning of the result depends on the specific test ordered and the stage of pregnancy.
Why might my clinician order a quantitative AFP test after this result?
A quantitative test measures the AFP concentration in the blood, which can help with further evaluation or monitoring. The exact follow-up depends on your symptoms, medical history, and the reason the test was ordered.
  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