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Albumin Blood Test

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

This blood test measures the amount of albumin, an important protein made by your liver, to help evaluate how well your liver and kidneys are working.

Quick summary

{"Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance in the body","Low albumin levels may indicate liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition","Normal range is typically 3.5-5.0 g/dL","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results help doctors assess overall health and nutritional status"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1751-7
Short code
ALB
Synonyms
—
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST/Gold Top) or Red Top Tube
Units
g/dL
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
2 g/dL – 8 g/dL
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
bromocresol-green
CPT
82040
SNOMED
271588005
Specimen volume
1 mL minimum, 3-5 mL preferred
Stability
Room temperature: 7 days, Refrigerated (2-8°C): 30 days, Frozen (-20°C or below): 12 months
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–4 hours

What is this test?

The albumin test measures the amount of albumin, a crucial protein produced by your liver, in your bloodstream. Albumin plays several vital roles: it helps maintain fluid balance in your body by keeping blood within your blood vessels, transports hormones, vitamins, and medications, and helps prevent swelling (edema).

Why is this test performed?

Your doctor may order an albumin test as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or liver function tests. It helps evaluate how well your liver is working, check for liver disease or damage, assess kidney function, evaluate your nutritional status, and monitor certain chronic conditions.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The procedure only takes a few minutes. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the puncture site, but serious complications are rare. No special preparation, such as fasting, is typically required for this test.

Understanding your results

Normal albumin levels typically range from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL. However, reference ranges may vary slightly depending on the laboratory. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your overall health, medical history, and other test results.

Reference range

Adult: 3.5-5.5 g/dL. Pediatric (1-18 years): 3.8-5.4 g/dL. Neonates: 2.5-5.0 g/dL. Values may vary slightly by laboratory method and population reference.g/dL

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Avoid strenuous exercise before sample collection as it may temporarily decrease albumin levels. Inform laboratory of any IV fluids being administered.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia) may indicate: liver disease such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, kidney disease that causes protein loss in urine, malnutrition or poor protein absorption, inflammatory conditions, heart failure, or certain genetic disorders. High albumin levels (hyperalbuminemia) are less common and often indicate dehydration.

Short name

ALB

Part of panels

cmplftlft-extendedmale-basic-health-screenmale-comprehensive-healthfemale-basic-health-screenfemale-comprehensive-healthpediatric-basic-healthpediatric-adolescent-healthelderly-comprehensive-healthliver-disease-screeningabdominal-pain-workuphealth-check-basichealth-check-comprehensivehealth-check-executive

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before the albumin test?
Generally, no fasting is required for an albumin test. However, if your doctor has ordered other tests that require fasting, follow their specific instructions.
What can affect my albumin levels?
Several factors can influence albumin levels, including: recent intravenous fluid administration, certain medications (such as steroids or birth control pills), pregnancy, and severe stress or trauma. Always inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Is the albumin test painful?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. After the blood draw, you might experience minor bruising or soreness at the site, which typically resolves quickly.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 24-48 hours, though this may vary depending on the laboratory. Your doctor's office will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Albumin Blood TestSource
  2. 2
    May Clinic - Low AlbuminSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy