Maternal Serum AFP Test
The maternal serum AFP test measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in a blood sample from a pregnant person. Quest describes it as a prenatal screening test, with elevated results associated with certain pregnancy-related conditions.
About this test
Alpha-fetoprotein is a protein Quest measures in maternal serum as part of prenatal screening. An elevated result is associated with a group of conditions that includes open neural tube defects, carrying multiple fetuses, placental anomalies, ventral abdominal wall defects, congenital nephrosis, and low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios).
The test uses a 1 mL serum sample, analyzed with an immunoassay method. Because the result is interpreted alongside factors such as gestational age and the number of fetuses, Quest lists related information used in that calculation among the analytes for this test, including estimated delivery date and maternal details.
Who might consider this test?
- Pregnant and being offered routine prenatal screening
- A clinician has raised a specific reason to check AFP based on history
- Such as a prior pregnancy affected by a neural tube defect
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
|---|
Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports the level of AFP in maternal serum, expressed relative to expected values for the pregnancy (Quest lists this as AFP MoM, multiples of the median). Because AFP is interpreted in the context of the pregnancy, Quest also lists related information used in that calculation, including gestational age, number of fetuses, and maternal weight.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the maternal serum AFP test measure?
It measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in a maternal serum sample, reported relative to expected values for the pregnancy.
How is the sample collected?
Through a routine blood draw that produces a maternal serum sample.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
What does an elevated AFP result mean?
Quest associates an elevated result with several possible pregnancy-related conditions, including open neural tube defects, carrying multiple fetuses, and certain placental or abdominal wall findings. It is a screening result, not a diagnosis on its own; a clinician reviews it together with the rest of the pregnancy picture.
Does this test screen for chromosomal abnormalities?
No. Quest specifically notes that maternal serum AFP is not used as a screening test for chromosomal conditions.