Test guide
Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test
An AFP test is a blood test that measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in your blood when you are pregnant. The test checks your baby's risk of having certain birth defects and genetic problems , but it does not diagnose any health conditions. The test is usually done between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy .
What it is for
An AFP blood test is used during pregnancy to check your baby's risk of birth defects and genetic disorders, such as neural tube defects or Down syndrome. This information helps you and your health care provider decide if you need to have other tests to learn more about your baby's health. AFP tests are often done as part of a group of prenatal tests , including: Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Medical test information is public domain. Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-18. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Limitations
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.
Also known as
- AFP Maternal
- Maternal Serum AFP
- msAFP screen
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