Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Blood Test

About the test 

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein that is made by liver cells when they are growing and dividing. Unborn babies have high levels of AFP as their liver is developing but levels fall to very low in adulthood. In adults, AFP tends to be used as a screen for liver problems, in particular liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), or to monitor response to treatment for these conditions.

Like all tests it is not perfect, levels of AFP may be raised in non-cancerous conditions and levels may be normal even if there is a problem. The results of the blood test should be interpreted in conjunction with your symptoms and, even if the test is normal, you should see your doctor with any unexplained abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, or yellowing of the skin and eyes.

AFP levels are naturally higher in pregnancy, so you should not take this test when you are pregnant unless you are advised to do so by your doctor.

1 Biomarker