What is an alpha-fetoprotein

(AFP) test?
An alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test is a blood test that measures the amount of
AFP present in blood. It’s usually part of what’s called a triple screen or quad
screen in the second trimester of pregnancy. However, it can also be useful for
adults who aren’t pregnant.

The yolk sac, GI tract, and liver of an unborn baby produce AFP. It then
circulates through the fetal and maternal blood. Individuals who aren’t
pregnant still have some AFP in their blood, but levels are normally low. High
levels of AFP in adults who aren’t pregnant usually indicate certain types of
liver disease.

Why do I need an alpha-

fetoprotein test?
An AFP test is a routine screening test that’s given to expectant mothers
between the 14th and 22nd weeks of their pregnancy. It is most accurate
between the 16th and 18th weeks, so it’s important to know exactly when you
became pregnant.

AFP testing is usually part of a quad screen. This screening exam also tests
your levels of:

 human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)

 estriol, which is a hormone produced by your placenta and your baby’s liver
 inhibin A, which is a hormone produced by your placenta
Doctors will use your quad screen results, your age, and your ethnicity to help
determine the chances that your unborn baby has a genetic birth defect.
Defects detected by this type of screening can include neural tube defects,
such as spina bifida, and chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down
syndrome. The AFP results will help your doctor determine if you need further
tests for these conditions. A positive test doesn’t necessarily mean your
unborn baby will have a birth defect.

The AFP test is especially important for women who are at high risk of having
children with birth defects, including women:

 who are 35 or older

 with a family history of birth defects
 who used harmful medications or drugs during their pregnancies
 who have diabetes

If you aren’t pregnant, an AFP test can help to diagnose and monitor certain
liver conditions, such as liver cancer, cirrhosis, and hepatitis. It can also help
detect several other cancers, including cancers of the:

 testes
 ovaries
 biliary tract
 stomach
 pancreas

What risks are associated with an

alpha-fetoprotein test?
There are very few risks associated with having your blood drawn for an AFP
test. You may feel slightly faint or have some soreness or pain at the puncture
site. There’s a small chance of excessive bleeding or hematoma, which occurs
when blood accumulates under your skin. There is also a very slight risk of
infection at the puncture site.

How is an alpha-fetoprotein test

performed?
You’ll need to get your blood drawn for an AFP test. Having blood drawn is an
outpatient procedure that’s usually performed at a diagnostic lab. The
procedure takes only a few minutes and is relatively painless. No special
preparation is necessary before an AFP test.

A healthcare professional will use a small needle to withdraw blood from a

vein, usually in your arm or hand. A laboratory specialist will analyze the
sample. Results are typically available within one to two weeks.