Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
What the test is
In pregnancy, AFP is part of prenatal screening and means something different.
Why it's done
- Liver cancer surveillance with cirrhosis (with an ultrasound every 6 months)
- Following some cancers
Getting ready and what happens
- No preparation is needed.
How the test is done
- A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.
What the results mean
High
Needs imaging to look for a cause.
Questions to ask your provider
- What do my results mean for me?
- Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
Risks
A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.
Related conditions
Related tests
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.