Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker Test Test
This blood test measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in your blood. High levels can be a sign of certain cancers, but also of noncancerous liver conditions. It is not used alone to diagnose cancer.
What this test measures
An AFP tumor marker test is a blood test that measures the level of AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) in a sample of your blood. AFP is a protein that the liver makes when its cells are growing and dividing to make new cells.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
High levels of AFP may be a sign of cancer of the liver, ovaries, or testicles. However, high levels could also be a sign of liver injury and liver diseases that aren’t cancer. Less often, high levels of AFP may be a sign of other cancers, including lymphoma or lung cancer.
Frequently asked questions
What is an AFP tumor marker test?
It is a blood test that measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in your blood. AFP is a protein made by the liver when cells are growing and dividing.
Can an AFP test alone diagnose cancer?
No. According to MedlinePlus, health care providers do not use the results from an AFP test alone to screen for or diagnose cancer.
What cancers are associated with high AFP levels?
High AFP levels can be a sign of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), ovarian germ cell tumors, or testicular nonseminomatous germ cell tumors.
What noncancerous conditions can cause high AFP?
Noncancerous conditions that affect the liver, such as cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis B or C infections, and liver disease, can cause high AFP levels.
How is AFP used during cancer treatment?
AFP levels are tested regularly during treatment. Increasing levels may mean treatment isn’t working, decreasing levels may mean it is working, and stable levels may mean the disease is stable.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) Tumor Marker Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.