This test measures Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP), a tumour marker linked to liver and germ cell cancers. It is also used to monitor chronic liver disease.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
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Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
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An Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) test measures the level of AFP in your blood. AFP is a protein normally produced by the liver of a developing fetus, but in adults, elevated levels are associated with certain cancers and liver conditions.
AFP is primarily used as a tumour marker for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) and germ cell tumours of the testes or ovaries. It is also used in people with chronic liver disease to monitor for early signs of malignancy.
AFP testing is commonly recommended for individuals at risk of liver cancer or those being monitored for tumour recurrence.
Reasons for testing include:
• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• Liver cirrhosis
• Monitoring liver cancer risk
• Suspected testicular or ovarian germ cell tumours
• Monitoring response to cancer treatment
• Follow-up after tumour removal
Symptoms that may prompt testing include:
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal discomfort
• Jaundice
• Liver disease history
• Testicular swelling or mass
Expanded benefit explanation
AFP is a key tumour marker used worldwide in liver and germ cell cancer monitoring. Rising levels can indicate disease presence or progression before symptoms appear.
We offer two UK-wide testing options:
Clinic testing
• Choose nearest UK clinic
• Blood sample collected
• Laboratory analysis performed
• Results securely returned
Home visit (+£60)
• Phlebotomist visits you
• Blood sample collected safely
• Sample sent to lab
• Results delivered confidentially
Typical UK reference range: 0–10 kU/L
Normal finding in healthy adults.
Indicates no current AFP elevation.
May indicate liver cancer, germ cell tumours, or severe liver disease and requires further investigation.
Simple steps to get your results
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsFollow these guidelines for accurate results
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.
Get more insight — these panels include the same biomarker: