AFP levels: what's normal, high and low
A protein produced by the fetal liver. Used as a tumor marker in adults and a screening marker in pregnancy.
Medically reviewed by Youmna DiStefano, MD · Last reviewed September 2026
The short answer
AFP is measured with a standard blood draw after an 8–12 hour fast. A typical reference range is 0.000 – 8.50 ng/mL. At TestWell it's $299.99 all-in as Men's Cancer Screening Panel, results in 3–5 business days, drawn at Quest or Labcorp. An out-of-range result is a prompt to look closer, not a diagnosis.
- Units
- ng/mL
- Sample
- Blood draw
- Fasting
- 8–12 hours
- Results
- 3–5 business days
- Price
- $299.99
- Labs
- Quest or Labcorp
AFP Reference Range
These are the typical adult reference ranges used by major US labs. Your report will include the specific range used by the lab that processed your sample.
| Population | Range |
|---|---|
| age 18+ | 0.000 – 8.50 ng/mL |
Reference ranges are educational. Always interpret your result with the specific range printed on your lab report and discuss anything outside the range with a clinician.
Have a result in hand? analyze it with your AI assistant using these reviewed ranges, or run it through our explainer. Tools: look up another marker's range · convert lab units
What your AFP result may mean
In non-pregnant adults, can reflect liver cancer or certain testicular/ovarian tumors.
Educational only — not a diagnosis. Many factors can influence a single result. Discuss anything that concerns you with a healthcare provider.
How do you get a AFP test?
Order online, a licensed physician reviews the requisition, and you walk into a nearby lab for the draw. AFP is available on its own or inside these panels — panels cost less per marker when you want the fuller picture.
| Option | Includes | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Men's Cancer Screening Panel | 12 tests | $299.99 |
Related Heart Health biomarkers
Markers commonly tested alongside AFP.
Frequently asked
What does a high AFP mean?
In non-pregnant adults, can reflect liver cancer or certain testicular/ovarian tumors. A single result above the reference range is a prompt to look closer with a clinician — often a repeat test and related markers — not a diagnosis on its own.
Do I need a doctor's order to test my afp?
No. TestWell's licensed physician network reviews and approves your order — usually within minutes. You can place an order online without an in-person visit or a referral from your own doctor.
How long does it take to get AFP results?
Most AFP results are available in 1–3 business days after your specimen arrives at the lab. You'll get an email the moment your results are ready, with everything viewable in your TestWell portal.
How much does a AFP test cost?
Our Men's Cancer Screening Panel starts at $299.99. That's the all-in price — no copays, no insurance hoops, no surprise bills. HSA and FSA cards are accepted.
Do I need to fast before my AFP test?
Yes — for the most accurate result, fast for 8–12 hours before your blood draw. Water is fine; coffee, food, and supplements are not. Your prep instructions will be included with your order.
Which lab will process my AFP test?
Your test will be processed by Quest Diagnostics, Labcorp, or BioReference depending on which is closest to you and which lab carries the test. All three are CLIA-certified and trusted by hospitals nationwide. You'll choose your lab during checkout from 4,000+ locations.
Ready to test your afp?
Order in two minutes, get physician-approved, and visit a lab the same day. Starts at $299.99.