Amniotic Fluid Albumin Test
This test measures the amount of albumin, a protein made by the liver, in the amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects your baby during pregnancy.
{"Albumin in amniotic fluid helps assess fetal lung maturity","Low levels may indicate fetal distress or kidney issues","The test uses a sample of amniotic fluid collected during amniocentesis","Results help doctors monitor pregnancy health and plan delivery timing","Abnormal levels may require additional testing or intervention"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1745-9
- Short code
- Albumin Amn-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Albumin Amn-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 0.2
- Ref high
- 0.6
- Critical range
- 1.5 not specified – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82040
- SNOMED
- 22383007
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The amniotic fluid albumin test measures the concentration of albumin, a protein produced by the liver, in the amniotic fluid that surrounds the unborn baby (fetus) in the womb. This fluid plays a crucial role in protecting the baby and helping its lungs develop properly.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider collects a sample of amniotic fluid using a thin needle guided by ultrasound. This procedure is called amniocentesis. The fluid sample is then sent to a laboratory where the albumin concentration is measured using specialized equipment.
Why is it important?
Albumin levels in amniotic fluid can indicate how mature the baby's lungs are and whether the fetus is experiencing any complications. The test helps doctors determine if the baby is at risk for respiratory problems after birth and guides decisions about the timing and method of delivery.
Reference range
0.2-0.6 g/dLnot specified
No patient preparation required; specimen obtained via amniocentesis
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low amniotic fluid albumin levels may indicate fetal lung immaturity, which means the baby's lungs may not be developed enough to breathe properly after birth. This can occur in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, or premature rupture of membranes. Conversely, very high levels may suggest fetal kidney problems or other complications. The test is often part of a larger assessment called fetal lung maturity testing, which helps obstetricians decide whether it is safe to deliver the baby early if medically necessary.
Frequently asked questions
Is the test safe?
When is this test typically ordered?
How long does it take to get results?
What do the results mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3ACOG - AmniocentesisSource
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy