Health Library

Alpha fetoprotein - series

Indications

Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein produced by the liver and yolk sac of a fetus. AFP has no normal function in adults. The alpha fetoprotein test (AFP) is a blood test performed to measure, diagnose, or monitor fetal distress or fetal abnormalities. It can also detect some liver disorders and some cancers in adults.

During pregnancy, this test, along with the examination of amniotic fluid (amniocentesis), can help detect fetal spinal bifida or other defects of the fetus' neural tube.

Procedure

The alpha-fetoprotein test is performed on a specimen obtained via a blood draw.

Results

Normal AFP levels for men for for non-pregnant women are less than 300 nanograms per milliliter.

Greater than normal levels of AFP may be due to:

• Cancer in testes, ovaries, biliary (liver secretion) tract, stomach, or pancreas
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Liver cancer
• Malignant teratoma
• Recovery from hepatitis
• Problems during pregnancy

Most "positive" AFP tests are actually false positives.

During pregnancy, increased levels of AFP may indicate:

• Fetal defects
• Spina bifida
• Anencephaly
• Omphalocele
• Tetralogy of Fallot
• Duodenal atresia
• Turner's syndrome
• Intrauterine death

Review Date: 7/13/2021  

Reviewed By: John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, for Health Content Provider (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2022 A.D.A.M., a business unit of Ebix, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.