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Alpha-Fetoprotein-L3 (AFP-L3) Fraction, Serum/Plasma

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

This blood test measures the AFP-L3 fraction of alpha-fetoprotein, a marker sometimes used in evaluating and monitoring liver cancer risk.

Quick summary

["An increased AFP-L3 fraction may raise concern for liver cancer but must be interpreted with other liver tests and imaging."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96451-0
Short code
AFP+AFP.L3 Pnl SerPl
Synonyms
AFP+AFP.L3 Pnl SerPl
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?

Alpha-fetoprotein-L3, or AFP-L3, is a modified form of the protein alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). This test measures the AFP-L3 fraction in a serum or plasma blood sample.

Why might I need this test?

AFP-L3 may be used to help evaluate people with liver nodules or a history of liver cancer and to monitor certain patients after treatment. It is usually interpreted with total AFP, liver function tests, imaging, and clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory uses an immunoassay-based method to measure AFP-L3. Results may be reported as a percentage of total AFP or according to the laboratory's reporting method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow any instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Tell the care team about recent liver tests, imaging, pregnancy, and any recent surgery or major illness, as these may affect interpretation.

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-L3 fraction

Frequently asked questions

Is AFP-L3 the same as a total AFP test?
No. Total AFP measures the overall amount of alpha-fetoprotein, while AFP-L3 measures a particular modified fraction of that protein. Both may be used together when evaluating or monitoring liver disease.
Does an abnormal AFP-L3 result mean I have liver cancer?
No. AFP-L3 is not diagnostic by itself. An abnormal result can have several causes and generally requires further evaluation with your clinician, other laboratory tests, and imaging.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is usually unnecessary for AFP-L3 testing. Follow the preparation instructions supplied by the laboratory, especially if AFP-L3 is being checked as part of a broader liver evaluation.
  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