Alpha fetoprotein

Alternative names:

AFP; fetal alpha globulin

Normal values:

Males or nonpregnant females: less than 300 ng/ml

Note: ng/ml = nanograms per milliliter

What abnormal results mean:

Greater-than-normal levels of AFP may indicate:

• cancer in testes, ovaries, biliary (liver secretion) tract, stomach, or pancreas
• cirrhosis of the liver
• liver cancer
• malignant teratoma
• recovery from hepatitis

During pregnancy, increased levels of AFP may indicate:

• fetal defects
  • spina bifida
  • anencephaly
  • omphalocele
  • tetralogy of Fallot
  • duodenal atresia
  • Turner's syndrome

• intrauterine death (usually results in a miscarriage)

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• testicular cancer