Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Alpha-fetoprotein is a protein produced in large amounts by the developing baby during pregnancy, and in only very small amounts by the adult liver. In adults, levels can rise when liver cells are regenerating, for example during hepatitis or with cirrhosis, as well as in some tumours of the liver, testes or ovaries.

AFP is called a tumour-associated marker because of this link, but it is not a cancer test. Hepatitis, a recovering liver and pregnancy can all push AFP up, and many people with a tumour have a normal level, so it cannot screen for or rule out cancer. Clinicians mainly use AFP to monitor people with a known condition, such as cirrhosis or a previously treated tumour, under specialist care. The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have long-term liver disease, such as cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B, and your specialist has suggested regular AFP monitoring.
• You have been treated for a liver or testicular tumour and your clinician has asked you to track AFP over time.
• You want a repeat of an AFP result your GP or specialist has already been following.
• You have a specific concern and would like a practitioner to discuss whether AFP is an appropriate test for you.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your AFP with the laboratory reference range. A level inside the range is common and expected. A raised level can be caused by liver inflammation, cirrhosis, liver regeneration after injury, pregnancy, or less commonly certain tumours, so it never gives a diagnosis on its own. Trends over time are usually more meaningful than a single reading.

If your AFP is raised, your practitioner will discuss it with you and suggest you see your GP, who may arrange further assessment such as imaging. Treat an out-of-range figure as a reason to talk it through, not as a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

You do not need to fast. Please tell us if you are or might be pregnant, as AFP rises naturally in pregnancy, and let us know about any known liver condition. If you take biotin (vitamin B7) or a hair, skin and nail supplement, stop it for at least 48 hours before the test, as it can interfere with some laboratory methods.

AFP is included in Omnia Signature, our most comprehensive check, and the Liver Function Check gives wider context on liver health. We also list every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is an AFP blood test in Chiswick?

An alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test costs £79 at Omnia. That covers the sample at our W4 clinic, analysis at an accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Can an AFP test detect cancer?

No. AFP can be raised for many reasons that are not cancer, and some cancers do not raise it. It is used to monitor known conditions and is always read with a full clinical assessment.

Why is AFP checked in people with cirrhosis?

People with cirrhosis are monitored for liver changes by their specialist, and AFP is sometimes used alongside ultrasound as part of that follow-up. It is not used on its own.

Does pregnancy affect AFP?

Yes. AFP rises naturally in pregnancy because the baby produces it. Pregnancy screening uses AFP in a very different way, through NHS antenatal services.