AFP (Alpha-1-fetoprotein) Blood Test
AFP is produced by the fetal liver during pregnancy and falls to very low levels after birth. In adults it is used mainly in two settings: surveillance of people with chronic liver disease, where it is measured alongside ultrasound, and the assessment and follow-up of non-seminomatous testicular tumours. It is also used to track response to treatment.
Why Test Alpha-1-fetoprotein (AFP)?
AFP is used in the surveillance of people with cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis, where it complements ultrasound rather than replacing it, and in the diagnosis and follow-up of testicular tumours. In follow-up after cancer treatment, a rising trend across repeated tests can indicate recurrence before symptoms appear. It is not used to look for cancer in people without symptoms or known risk.
What Do High Alpha-1-fetoprotein (AFP) Levels Mean?
Elevated AFP (typically above 10 µg/L) can point to liver cancer, non-seminomatous testicular cancer, or metastatic cancer involving the liver. But — and this is important — high AFP does not automatically mean cancer. Active hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver regeneration can all push levels up. A high result always calls for further investigation, including imaging and a specialist consultation.
What Do Low Alpha-1-fetoprotein (AFP) Levels Mean?
In healthy adults, AFP usually sits below 10 µg/L. A normal reading makes AFP-producing cancers less likely, but it does not rule them out entirely — especially early-stage tumours or those that simply do not produce much AFP. In patients already being treated for cancer, stable or falling AFP is generally a good sign that therapy is working.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Upper abdominal pain or swelling
- Unexplained weight loss
- A lump or swelling in the testicle
- Persistent fatigue and loss of appetite
Who Should Get Tested?
- People with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis, as part of surveillance agreed with their doctor
- People with suspected or known testicular cancer
- People monitoring cancer treatment or watching for recurrence
- Not recommended as a general cancer check without symptoms or a known risk: benign liver conditions raise it, and normal values do not exclude cancer
How to Prepare for Your Test
No special prep needed. Bring valid ID to your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is AFP specific to cancer?
Can a normal AFP level rule out cancer?
How often should AFP be monitored?
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Wellth Team
Wellth
Our content is written and reviewed by Wellth, and fact-checked against peer-reviewed research and current Swedish clinical guidelines.
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The information on this page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Wellth provides health information and testing services but is not a substitute for clinical care. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical condition. If you are experiencing severe or urgent symptoms, contact your doctor or call 1177 Vårdguiden. Blood test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your complete medical history.