The AFP Blood Test, or Alpha-Fetoprotein test, helps doctors assess liver health, detect certain cancers, and evaluate pregnancy-related concerns. AFP is mainly produced in unborn babies, and healthy adults usually have very low levels. A rise may indicate liver inflammation, tumours, or pregnancy-related issues.
Doctors often advise this test for people with chronic liver disease, hepatitis B or C, cirrhosis, or a higher risk of liver cancer. It is also part of prenatal screening to support early detection and timely care.
What is AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein)?
AFP is a protein produced by the fetal liver, yolk sac, and digestive tract. Newborns naturally have high AFP levels, which fall soon after birth. In healthy adults, AFP levels remain very low.
During pregnancy, the protein supports fetal growth and organ development. AFP levels differ by age and condition, but most adults have values below 10 ng/mL. Pregnant women and newborns often show higher levels because the developing baby continues to produce AFP.
Purpose of the AFP Blood Test
The AFP Blood Test helps doctors screen, diagnose, and monitor several essential health conditions.
1. Screening for liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
Higher AFP levels may suggest liver inflammation or injury from hepatitis or cirrhosis, allowing early care.
2. Detection of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
AFP can rise noticeably in liver cancer. Doctors often recommend this test for people at higher risk, such as those with chronic hepatitis or cirrhosis.
3. Monitoring cancer treatment effectiveness
Changing AFP levels helps doctors understand how well treatment is working and whether further assessment is needed.
4. Screening for specific congenital disabilities during pregnancy
During pregnancy, AFP testing can help identify conditions like neural tube or abdominal wall defects. Abnormal values lead to additional evaluation.
Doctors may advise this test when symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal swelling, fatigue, weight loss, or long-term liver disease are present.
How the AFP Blood Test Is Managed?
The AFP Blood Test is done by trained healthcare professionals such as phlebotomists, nurses, and laboratory technicians. Diagnostic centres and hospital laboratories carry out the test. Doctors, including hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and oncologists, advise the test and interpret the results based on symptoms and risk factors.
Pre-Test Guidelines for AFP Blood Testing
1. Fasting requirements, if any
Fasting is not usually required for an AFP Blood Test. Follow fasting instructions only if your doctor has advised it for other tests.
2. Medications or supplements to avoid
Inform your doctor about any medicines or supplements you take. They may ask you to pause those that can affect liver-related results.
3. Timing considerations
Pregnant women are usually advised to take the test between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. Others can take it as scheduled for liver monitoring or cancer evaluation.
4. Precautions before the test
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours, especially if you have liver concerns. Stay well hydrated and inform the technician if you take blood thinners or have a bleeding tendency.
How is the AFP Blood Test Performed?
- A technician cleans the area and uses a fine needle to collect a small blood sample.
- The process takes only a few minutes and may cause a brief pinch.
- A bandage is applied after the draw, and the sample is sent to the lab.
- Results are usually available within 24 hours.
Understanding AFP Blood Test Results
Normal AFP levels in adults are usually below 10 ng/mL. Slightly raised values may occur in viral hepatitis or general liver inflammation, while very high levels can indicate liver cancer or certain germ cell tumours.
In pregnancy, high AFP may suggest neural tube concerns, and low levels may relate to chromosomal issues. AFP levels vary with factors such as age, pregnancy, liver disease, and some medicines. If results are abnormal, doctors may recommend further tests, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or other blood-based assessments, to identify the cause.
Risks and Side Effects
- The AFP Blood Test is safe for children, adults, and pregnant women.
- Mild effects, such as slight pain, bruising, or swelling, may occur and usually resolve within a few hours.
- Rarely, people may feel dizzy, develop a mild infection, or experience longer bleeding, especially if they have clotting issues.
AFP Test Frequency & Follow-up
The timing of AFP testing depends on health needs. People with chronic liver conditions may repeat the test every three to six months. Those receiving cancer treatment may need it more often to track response. Doctors usually assess AFP levels along with liver function tests and imaging to get a clearer picture of overall health.
Conclusion
The AFP Blood Test supports early detection of liver conditions, helps monitor treatment, and offers essential information during pregnancy-related assessments. It is a simple, safe test that provides doctors with valuable insights into a person’s health.
Suppose you notice symptoms such as yellowing of the skin, ongoing tiredness, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, or persistent digestive discomfort. In that case, it is helpful to speak with a doctor at Venkateshwar Hospital. They can guide you on whether an AFP test is needed. Early evaluation supports timely care and better long-term health.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a liver function test, and how is it related to AFP?
Liver function tests measure enzymes and proteins that reflect the liver’s function. The AFP Test complements these results by helping doctors assess liver injury or the possibility of liver cancer.
2. How is cancer screening performed using blood tests?
Doctors use specialised blood tests such as AFP, CEA, and CA 19-9. These results are reviewed along with imaging scans to look for early signs of cancer.
3. What are the common prenatal tests and their significance?
During pregnancy, doctors may advise AFP testing, ultrasounds, and tests such as the double or triple marker. These help assess the baby’s growth and screen for specific developmental concerns.
4. Who should consult a hepatologist for AFP testing?
People living with hepatitis B or C, fatty liver, cirrhosis, or a family history of liver cancer may benefit from consulting a hepatologist for AFP testing.
5. What is the difference between AFP and tumour markers like CEA or CA 19-9?
AFP is mainly used to assess liver cancer risk. CEA is commonly used for colon-related concerns, while CA 19-9 helps doctors evaluate pancreatic conditions.
6. How to interpret blood test reports as a beginner?
You can start by checking your results against the lab’s reference range. It is always best to discuss any values that seem higher or lower than expected with your doctor.
7. What do high AFP levels mean?
High AFP levels can be linked to liver inflammation, liver cancer, or certain fetal conditions during pregnancy. Doctors may advise further tests to understand the exact cause.
8. Is the AFT Blood Test the same as the AFP Blood Test?
Yes. AFT is a standard typing error, and both refer to the Alpha-Fetoprotein Test.
9. How long does it take to get AFP test results?
AFP test reports are generally available within 24 to 48 hours in most diagnostic centres.
10. Is AFP included in regular health checkups?
AFP is not part of routine health checkups. Doctors usually recommend it for people at higher risk of liver disease or during pregnancy-related assessments.
Medically Reviewed by — Dr. Vignesh Mani Consultant – Liver Transplant, GI Surgery, GI Oncology & Robotics)
