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Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Unit Converter
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a plasma protein produced by the yolk sac and liver of a developing fetus. Levels are highest during the second trimester of pregnancy, decreasing rapidly after birth. In adults, AFP is minimally expressed.
AFP is measured for two primary clinical purposes:
1. **Prenatal Screening:** As a component of the quad screen (Maternal Serum AFP), used to assess the risk of **Neural Tube Defects (NTDs)** (high AFP) and **Down syndrome** (low AFP). Results are reported as Multiples of the Median (MoM).
2. **Oncology:** As a tumor marker for **Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)** and non-seminomatous germ cell tumors. This converter facilitates switching between mass (ng/mL) and activity (IU/mL) units.
Activity / SI Units
RecommendedInternational Units per milliliter (Numerically 1:1).
Mass / Molar Equivalents
Clinical Context
Oncology Reference Range: In non-pregnant adults, AFP levels are normally very low, typically < 10 ng/mL. Levels > 400 ng/mL are highly suggestive of HCC or a germ cell tumor.
**Prenatal Interpretation:** Levels are highly sensitive to gestational age and reported as MoM. High MoM values (> 2.5 MoM) are indicative of open NTDs. Low MoM values (< 0.75 MoM) are associated with Down syndrome. The mass-to-activity conversion relies on the WHO standard: 1 ng/mL ≈ 0.826 IU/mL.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., ng/mL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. Conversions cover both activity (IU/mL) and mass (pmol/L).
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. IU/mL and kIU/L are numerically identical.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. 1 ng/mL is exactly equal to 1 μg/L.
The International Unit (IU) is based on the biological activity of a WHO standard, while mass (ng) is based on weight. The conversion factor is calculated using the established standard ratio.