Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration
This blood test measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein that may be elevated with certain liver cancers, other tumors, or liver disease.
["An elevated AFP result is not diagnostic of cancer and must be interpreted with your medical history, examination, and other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53960-1
- Short code
- AFP-TM SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- AFP-TM SerPl-sCnc
- 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?
The alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test measures the amount of AFP in serum or plasma. AFP is a protein made mainly by the liver and is commonly used as a tumor marker, although it is also evaluated in other clinical settings, including some pregnancy screenings.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test to help evaluate a liver mass, monitor someone with a history of liver cancer, assess response to treatment, or investigate unexplained liver findings. In pregnancy, AFP may be tested as part of screening for certain fetal conditions.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the serum or plasma is analyzed for AFP using a laboratory assay. The specific laboratory method may vary, and the result is usually compared with information that is appropriate for your age, pregnancy status, and clinical situation.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required for this test, although you should follow any instructions from your clinician or laboratory. Tell the healthcare team if you are pregnant because AFP results are interpreted differently during pregnancy.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
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.
A higher-than-expected AFP level may occur with some liver cancers, other tumors, and certain noncancerous liver conditions such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. AFP can also change in pregnancy, so pregnancy status and clinical context are important. A single elevated result does not establish a cancer diagnosis and is usually evaluated with imaging, liver tests, medical history, and repeat testing when appropriate.
Short name
AFP Tumor Marker
Frequently asked questions
Does an elevated AFP result mean I have cancer?
Is fasting required before the AFP test?
Why might AFP be measured during pregnancy?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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