Alpha Feto Protein (AFP)

Test Details

What is this test?

The Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) test is usually a blood test that is done during the second trimester of pregnancy. The purpose is to identify the risk of birth defects and genetic disorders, including neural tube defect, down syndrome in a developing fetus. However, it can be essential for adults, to detect the presence of chronic liver diseases, testicles, or ovary cancers.

What does the test measure?

Alpha Feto Protein (AFP) test measures the level of Alpha-fetoprotein in blood. Apart from that, the test determines the levels of: Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) Estriol, a hormone produced by the placenta and baby’s liver Inhibin A, a hormone produced by the placenta

How to prepare for the test?

No special preparation is necessary for the test. The AFP test will only require your blood that takes only a few minutes. The healthcare specialist will use a needle to draw your blood from a vein which will be sent for the test later.

What does the test result mean?

If the level of your AFP test result come higher than normal, that indicates your baby might have a neural tube defect. On the other hand, a lowerv AFP level than the reference range means your baby can be affected with Down syndrome. However, an abnormal AFP level, deviating from the standard level doesn’t always prove your baby is facing difficulties. Sometimes the results can be problematic too due to uneven pregnancy state of the mother. So it is better to consult a specialist doctor to evaluate the health condition further.