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Alpha-Fetoprotein, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

A blood test measuring alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein that may be elevated in certain liver conditions, some pregnancies, and some cancers.

Quick summary

["AFP is a tumor-marker test that can also rise with liver disease or pregnancy, so results should be interpreted by your healthcare professional."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19177-5
Short code
AFP SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
AFP SerPl-sCnc
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 amount of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in your blood. AFP is a protein made by the developing liver and fetus, and it is also used as a tumor marker in certain cancers.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order AFP to evaluate liver disease, monitor certain cancers or their treatment, or assess certain aspects of pregnancy. It is often interpreted together with other tests and imaging rather than on its own.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The laboratory uses a laboratory method to measure the AFP concentration in the serum or plasma portion of the sample.

How do I prepare for the test?

You may be able to eat and drink normally, but follow your doctor's instructions. Tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or recently 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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Is alpha-fetoprotein the same as the AFP screening test in pregnancy?
The laboratory measurement is the same, but its interpretation differs. In pregnancy, AFP may be used with other screening information to assess the risk of certain birth defects or pregnancy complications.
Does a high AFP result mean I have cancer?
No. Elevated AFP can have many causes, including liver disease and pregnancy. Your doctor will consider the result alongside other tests and clinical findings.
What if my AFP result is normal?
A normal result may be reassuring, but AFP is not a complete test for every cancer or liver condition. The meaning of the result depends on why it was ordered and your overall health.
  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