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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker, Serum/Plasma

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

A blood test that measures alpha-fetoprotein, a protein used to help evaluate certain liver and other tumors.

Quick summary

["Elevated AFP may occur with certain cancers, but it can also rise during pregnancy and with some noncancerous liver conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109094-3
Short code
AFP-TM Msmt SerPl
Synonyms
AFP-TM Msmt SerPl
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 serum or plasma. AFP is a protein produced mainly by the developing liver and fetus and may also be made by certain tumors.

Why might I need this test?

AFP may be used to help evaluate people with liver disease and to monitor the treatment or response of certain liver and germ cell tumors. It may also be measured as part of a prenatal evaluation.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected through a vein, and the serum or plasma is separated and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the AFP concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow the instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Tell the healthcare team if you are pregnant, because AFP levels change naturally during pregnancy.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated AFP result may occur with liver cancer, certain germ cell tumors, pregnancy, or some noncancerous liver diseases. AFP alone cannot confirm or rule out cancer and is interpreted with other findings, including imaging, symptoms, and additional laboratory tests.

Short name

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Frequently asked questions

Is the AFP blood test the same as a pregnancy test?
No. A home pregnancy test detects human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), whereas the AFP test measures alpha-fetoprotein. AFP may be used as part of certain prenatal screening tests.
Does an elevated AFP level mean I have cancer?
No. AFP can also be elevated during pregnancy and with some noncancerous liver conditions, so results must be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of the reason for testing.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually not necessary for AFP testing, although the laboratory may have specific instructions. Confirm any preparation requirements before your blood draw.
  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