Maternal Serum/Plasma Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level
This test measures the amount of alpha-fetoprotein, a protein produced by the fetal liver and yolk sac, in your blood. It is commonly used during pregnancy to help screen for certain birth defects.
["AFP helps assess fetal development and detect potential genetic or structural abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106512-7
- Short code
- Maternal ultrasound Patient Ql
- Synonyms
- Maternal ultrasound Patient Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Why is this test done? Your doctor orders this test to gather important information about your health. It can help find a medical condition early, check how well an organ is working, monitor a problem you already have, or show whether a treatment is helping you.
Your healthcare provider may order this test during pregnancy, especially between the 15th and 22nd weeks, to screen for conditions like neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) or other chromosomal abnormalities. It may also be used in combination with other tests for further evaluation.
What does the test involve? In most cases the test is quick and simple. It may involve giving a small sample of blood, urine, or another body fluid, or a member of your care team may use a machine to take measurements while you relax. Your care team will explain each step before the test begins.
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab, where it is processed to measure the AFP protein levels. No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals or strenuous activity before the test.
What are the results typically used for? Your care team uses the results to guide your care. They can help confirm or rule out a diagnosis, choose the right treatment, track changes in your condition over time, and show how well your current medicines or therapies are working.
The results help determine if further testing or monitoring is needed. Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of certain birth defects, while lower levels might require additional evaluation depending on the clinical context.
What does it mean if my results are abnormal? An abnormal result does not always mean something is seriously wrong. Factors such as medicines, foods, stress, or a recent illness can affect your values. Your doctor will review the results with you, explain what they mean, and order follow-up testing if it is needed.
Abnormal AFP levels do not always mean there is a problem, but they may prompt additional testing, such as ultrasound imaging or amniocentesis. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results and next steps with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: AFP in Pregnancy Screening
Short name
AFP Level
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common reasons for this test?
Results are typically available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the lab and your healthcare provider’s process. Your provider will contact you to discuss the findings.
No special diet is required before this test. You can eat and drink normally, but avoid heavy meals right before the blood draw to ensure accuracy.
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