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Alpha-Fetoprotein Antibody, Serum/Plasma — Immunoassay, Arbitrary Concentration

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

This blood test measures antibodies directed against alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). It is different from the routine AFP test used as a tumor marker.

Quick summary

["This test detects AFP antibodies and is not the same as measuring AFP levels for cancer screening."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90290-8
Short code
AFP Ab SerPl IA-aCnc
Synonyms
AFP Ab SerPl IA-aCnc
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
Method
ia
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 antibody, or AFP Ab, is a blood test that detects antibodies made by the immune system against alpha-fetoprotein. The result is reported using an arbitrary concentration measurement rather than the mass concentration used for routine AFP testing.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered in selected situations when a clinician is evaluating an immune response to AFP. It is not a standard screening test for liver disease or cancer, and it does not replace the AFP tumor-marker blood test.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory uses an immunoassay to look for AFP antibodies. The laboratory may first test a serum or plasma sample and perform additional testing if the result requires confirmation.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required for this test. Tell the healthcare provider if you are pregnant, recently received a blood transfusion, or have had an infection, because these factors may affect some antibody test results.

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

AFP antibody

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as the AFP tumor-marker test?
No. This test measures antibodies against AFP, whereas the standard AFP blood test measures the amount of AFP protein in the blood.
Is the AFP antibody test routinely used for cancer screening?
No. It is used only in selected clinical situations and should not be used alone to screen for or diagnose cancer.
What if the result is positive?
A positive result means AFP antibodies were detected. Your healthcare provider will consider it along with your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine whether follow-up is needed.
  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