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Tumor Markers

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Normal range < 10 (nonpregnant adult) ng/mL (< 10 µg/L SI). Specimen: Serum.

Also known as: alpha fetoprotein.

< 10 (nonpregnant adult) ng/mLReference range

Reference range

This result is reported qualitatively or as a one-sided threshold rather than a two-sided numeric band.

SpecimenSerum
Conventional range< 10 (nonpregnant adult) ng/mL
SI range< 10 µg/L
Conversion factor×1 (conventional → SI)
PanelTumor Markers

Convert any Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) result between units on the unit converter.

What is the normal range for Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)?

The standard teaching reference range for Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) is < 10 (nonpregnant adult) ng/mL in conventional units, or < 10 µg/L in SI units. This value is measured in serum.

Source: Adult reference values compiled from Pagana & Pagana, Mosby's Diagnostic and Laboratory Test Reference, and Fischbach & Dunning, A Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, method, age, sex, and population — always use the range printed on the actual result.

Above the range

Common causes of a high Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

  • Hepatocellular carcinoma
  • Germ-cell (testicular) tumors
  • Pregnancy (neural tube defects if high)
  • Chronic liver disease

At the bedside

Nursing considerations

  • Tumor marker in adults and a maternal screening analyte in pregnancy.

Study aid

Your notes on Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP)

Same panel

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Beta-hCG (Tumor Marker)< 5 (nonpregnant) mIU/mLCA 15-3< 30 U/mLCA 19-9< 37 U/mLCA-125< 35 U/mLCarcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA)< 3.0 nonsmoker (< 5.0 smoker) ng/mLProstate-Specific Antigen (PSA)< 4.0 (age-dependent) ng/mL