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Alpha Fetoprotein
88.00
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
Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs
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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about Alpha Fetoprotein
What is an Alpha Fetoprotein test?
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.
Why do I need an AFP test?
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
Benefits of the test
1. Early detection marker for liver cancer
2. Detects germ cell tumours
3. Monitors chronic liver disease patients
4. Tracks response to cancer treatment
5. Helps detect tumour recurrence
6. Simple blood test with high clinical value
7. Supports imaging and diagnosis
8. Provides ongoing monitoring tool
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.
Step-by-step — How testing works
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
Your results explained
Low levels
Typical UK reference range: 0–10 kU/L
Normal finding in healthy adults.
Normal levels
Indicates no current AFP elevation.
High levels
May indicate liver cancer, germ cell tumours, or severe liver disease and requires further investigation.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
3
Get Your Results
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 UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
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 & Hydration
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.
Medications & Supplements
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.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
It measures alpha-fetoprotein levels in the blood, a marker linked to liver disease and certain cancers.
No fasting is required.
No. Elevated AFP can occur in non-cancerous liver conditions.
Yes. Some liver cancers do not produce AFP, so imaging is also important.
AFP is used in pregnancy screening, but this test is intended for non-pregnant adults.
Frequency depends on clinical context, often every 3–6 months for surveillance.
Yes. We offer at-home phlebotomy blood draws across multiple UK locations.
Testing is performed in UKAS-accredited laboratories using validated assays.
Results are usually ready within 10 business days.
A GP consultation is optional, but recommended if AFP levels are elevated.
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