An AFP (Alpha-Fetoprotein) Blood Test measures the level of AFP in the blood. AFP is a protein primarily produced by the liver and yolk sac of a developing fetus. In adults, AFP is normally present only in very small amounts.
This test is commonly used as a tumor marker to help detect and monitor certain cancers, including liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), testicular cancer, and ovarian cancer. It is also used during pregnancy to screen for fetal abnormalities such as neural tube defects and chromosomal conditions.
