Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Test in Chennai

What is an AFP Test?

The AFP test (also known as the Alpha-Fetoprotein test or Alpha-Fetoprotein blood test) measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein, a protein mainly produced by the foetal liver and yolk sac during pregnancy, in the blood. In healthy non-pregnant adults and men, AFP is present only in very low amounts. The test helps assess risks during pregnancy and supports evaluation of certain liver or tumour-related conditions in adults.

Why is the AFP Test Done?

Healthcare providers recommend the AFP blood test for several key reasons:

Prenatal screening — Usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation to screen for open neural tube defects (such as spina bifida or anencephaly), abdominal wall defects, chromosomal conditions (like Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome when combined with other markers), multiple pregnancies, or incorrect gestational dating.

Adult monitoring — As part of the AFP test liver evaluation, to help detect or monitor hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), germ cell tumours (e.g., in testes or ovaries), chronic liver diseases (such as cirrhosis), or hepatitis-related complications.

Follow-up after abnormal findings in other tests or to track treatment response in cancer patients.

The test is a screening tool, not a definitive diagnosis, and results are always interpreted alongside clinical history, ultrasound scans, and additional investigations.

How is the AFP Test Performed?

The procedure is simple and quick:

A healthcare professional cleans the arm and inserts a small needle into a vein.

A small amount of blood is collected in a tube.

The needle is removed, and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding; a bandage is placed.

The entire process takes less than 5 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis.

Patients feel only a brief prick; discomfort is minimal and short-lived.

Preparation for the AFP Test

• No special preparation is typically needed:
• Fasting is not required.
• Patients can eat, drink, and take regular medications unless advised otherwise.
• Inform the doctor about gestational age (if pregnant), weight, age, ethnicity, diabetes status, or any medications, as these factors help adjust result interpretation.
• Staying hydrated makes the vein easier to access.

Risks and Side Effects

The AFP blood test is very safe, with risks similar to any routine blood draw:

• Minor bruising or soreness at the puncture site (resolves quickly).
• Rare chance of infection or light-headedness.
• Serious complications are extremely uncommon.

AFP Normal Range

AFP levels vary by patient group and gestational age (if applicable). Results are often reported in ng/mL or as multiples of the median (MoM) for pregnancy screening.

Values outside these ranges warrant further evaluation but do not confirm any specific condition alone.

Interpreting AFP Test Results

High AFP levels in pregnancy — May suggest open neural tube defects, abdominal wall defects, multiple gestation, or dating errors; further tests like detailed ultrasound or amniocentesis are recommended.

• Low AFP levels in pregnancy — Can indicate increased risk for chromosomal issues (e.g., Down syndrome) when part of combined screening.
• High AFP in non-pregnant adults — Often linked to liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), germ cell tumours, active liver inflammation, cirrhosis, or recovery from liver injury.
• Low or normal AFP — Generally reassuring, though not 100% exclusionary for all conditions.
• False positives or negatives can occur, so results are always discussed with a specialist for context.

The AFP test price at Unittas Hospital is competitively priced to ensure accessible, high-quality care.

Why Choose Unittas Hospital?

Unittas Multispeciality Hospital is a NABH-accredited centre with branches in Tambaram and Kelambakkam, conveniently located for patients across Chennai and the OMR corridor. Our state-of-the-art in-house laboratory features advanced analysers for precise diagnostic testing, supported by experienced pathologists and specialists who deliver expert interpretation and personalised guidance.

We ensure quick turnaround with same-day or next-day results in most cases, comfortable phlebotomy areas, private spaces for result discussions, and seamless connections to specialist consultations — all in a single facility. With a strong emphasis on compassionate, patient-focused care, hygienic premises, and flexible timings, Unittas is a trusted choice for reliable diagnostics in Chennai.