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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Amniotic Fluid — Qualitative

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

This test checks whether alpha-fetoprotein is present in amniotic fluid and may be used in evaluating certain fetal conditions.

Quick summary

["Amniotic fluid AFP is interpreted by your prenatal care clinician together with pregnancy and ultrasound findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43798-8
Short code
AFP Amn Ql
Synonyms
AFP Amn Ql
Category
liver
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
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
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that can be measured in amniotic fluid, the fluid surrounding a fetus during pregnancy. This qualitative test reports whether AFP is detected.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be performed after a prenatal screening test or ultrasound suggests a possible fetal abnormality. AFP testing can help evaluate concerns such as open neural tube defects or certain abdominal wall defects.

How is the test performed?

A clinician must first obtain amniotic fluid, usually through amniocentesis. The laboratory then examines the sample for AFP. Results are interpreted with other prenatal tests, ultrasound findings, and your stage of pregnancy.

How do I prepare for the test?

The laboratory test itself requires no special preparation, but obtaining amniotic fluid requires an amniocentesis procedure. Your prenatal clinician will explain the procedure, its risks, and any preparation instructions, including avoiding infection-related exposures if instructed.

Reference range

Normal: <10 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: fluid

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

Amniotic Fluid AFP

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as the AFP blood test used during pregnancy screening?
No. Maternal blood AFP is commonly used for prenatal screening, while this test examines AFP in amniotic fluid collected by amniocentesis.
Does an abnormal result mean the fetus has a serious condition?
An abnormal result can raise concern but does not confirm a condition by itself. Follow-up testing and review by a prenatal specialist or genetic counselor may be needed.
Does this test confirm or rule out a birth defect?
No. It provides one part of the evaluation and must be considered alongside ultrasound, laboratory testing, medical history, and pregnancy stage.
  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