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.
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
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.
Ready to test your afp?
Order in two minutes, get physician-approved, and visit a lab the same day. Starts at $299.99.