The blood sample is sent to the laboratory for testing. After the needle is withdrawn, the puncture site is covered for a short time to prevent bleeding. No preparation is generally needed for this test. The doctor who orders the test will provide specific instructions if needed. Normal AFP levels depend on the age of the person.
Higher levels are normal in young children.
In an adult who is not pregnant, an elevated AFP can mean different things. As mentioned, this test is normally used to look for or monitor cancer. If a doctor suspects one of these cancers, a high AFP blood level may indicate the need for other tests to search for cancer. Alternatively, if someone has a known cancer that causes increased AFP, the AFP level can be followed during treatment. If the AFP level goes down with treatment, the cancer is probably shrinking.