The AFP test, also known as the alpha-fetoprotein test, is prescribed for pregnant women between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy1. The measurement of alpha-fetoprotein levels in pregnancy is important because it helps detect certain defects and abnormalities. The AFP normal range in pregnancy indicates that your fetus is completely healthy.
Learn everything about the Alpha-fetoprotein test before you book a lab test online. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.
The AFP protein test measures the alpha-fetoprotein level in babies. During pregnancy, an AFP blood test assesses the baby's risk of birth defects and genetic disorders like neural tube defects or Down syndrome. It doesn't provide a diagnosis but indicates the need for further testing if results are abnormal 2.
Outside pregnancy, the AFP test assists in diagnosing certain cancers that elevate the alpha-fetoprotein level in adults. In this context, it's termed an AFP tumour marker test. Also, AFP blood tests are used to evaluate the progress of anti-cancer treatment 3.
Doctors recommend AFP tests when you have any chronic disease or genetic disorders. Your genetic disorder or diabetes 4 might affect your baby, so doctors suggest alpha-fetoprotein lab tests. Here are a few other reasons doctors might recommend the AFP protein test 5.
During Pregnancy:
For Tumor Detection:
The steps below help you ensure that your AFP test provides the most accurate information about your health.
An AFP Test only takes a few minutes.
Please note: There might be slight pain or bruising at the spot of insertion, but most of the symptoms go away quickly.
Should you book blood test online to check your health condition or go to the nearest clinic and get it done by a medical professional? Let's Find Out
Yes, the AFP Test can be taken at home. HealthcareOnTime's at-home lab testing service, in association with thyrocare, provides a convenient and efficient way to get blood testing done from the comfort of your own home without the need for a doctor's visit or a trip to a lab. It's important to note that it's always a good idea to consult with an expert healthcare provider about any queries you may have about your test results.
The AFP test price varies significantly depending on many factors:
Generally, the AFP test cost in India ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000. By opting for HealthcareOnTime lab test at-home facilities, you can access the AFP test at the cost of INR 720.
You received your AFP blood test results but still need help determining if they fall under the normal range. Read this section to know if your results range between the AFP normal range.
Every pregnant woman is generally advised to take an alpha-fetoprotein blood test. The AFP test normal range is nothing to be worried about. However, high AFP in pregnancy may mean genetic disorders. Let us look at what AFP test results mean 6.
During Cancer Treatment:
If you're undergoing cancer treatment, multiple AFP tests may be conducted to monitor your progress. Changes in AFP levels can provide insights into your treatment's efficacy:
Post-Treatment Monitoring:
After completing cancer treatment, AFP tests can assess the effectiveness of the therapy and potential cancer recurrence:
Liver Disease Considerations:
Individuals with chronic liver diseases may require additional tests if AFP levels significantly rise or remain persistently high, as it could indicate potential liver cancer development.
Consult your healthcare provider to interpret your AFP test results accurately and understand their implications for your health.
The alpha-fetoprotein normal range indicates your baby is healthy and free from liver disorders and genetic defects. As well as the elevated levels are considered as follows7:
|
AFP Levels |
Interpretation |
|
0 ng/mL - 10 ng/mL (or up to 40 ng/mL) |
Normal range for adults; levels may vary by age and race. Consult your healthcare provider for personalised interpretation based on your medical history and demographics. |
|
Greater than 400 ng/mL |
Potentially indicative of liver tumours; further evaluation and testing may be necessary. |
|
High levels |
May also suggest other cancers like Hodgkin's disease, lymphoma, or renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer). Additional diagnostic procedures may be required for accurate diagnosis. |
Note that the normal AFP levels in pregnancy in some labs may differ as they might use different methods and samples to measure the result.
Several medical conditions, including pregnancy, liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and testicular carcinoma, can cause elevated AFP levels. This makes AFP a crucial marker for diagnosing and monitoring these related malignancies.8
If the AFP level is lower than the normal range, it can mean the baby might have certain genetic disorders or congenital disabilities like Down syndrome and Edward Syndrome.
Ref Links:
The AFP test results, along with other factors such as maternal age, gestational age, and sometimes additional blood tests, are used to calculate the individual risk of certain abnormalities. The results are typically presented as a screening result with a specific risk factor, such as "1 in 1000" or "1 in 100."
If the AFP test or the combined screening indicates a higher risk of a specific abnormality, further diagnostic tests, such as ultrasound, amniocentesis, or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), may be recommended for a more accurate diagnosis.
Also, Our Exclusive Monthly Newsletter Delivers the Hottest Health Tips and Updates Straignt to Your Inbox!
Embrace hassle-free, at-home, and instant health check-ups with HealthcareOnTime, your trusted online pathology lab for comprehensive, cost-effective, and convenient Thyrocare test booking, lab testing, and medical screening.
Did you catch our latest post? JOIN US
