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What is this test?

The blood albumin test measures the level of albumin, a crucial protein produced by your liver, in your bloodstream. The bromocresol purple (BCP) dye binding method is a laboratory technique used to determine how much albumin is present in your blood sample. Albumin makes up about 60% of the total protein in your blood and plays essential roles in maintaining your health.

Why is albumin important?

Albumin serves several vital functions in your body: it helps maintain fluid balance by keeping water inside your blood vessels, transports important substances like hormones, vitamins, and medications through your bloodstream, and helps prevent fluid from leaking into surrounding tissues. Without adequate albumin, fluid can build up in your legs, abdomen, or lungs (a condition called edema).

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm, usually as part of a routine blood draw. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where the bromocresol purple dye binding method is used to measure your albumin levels. You do not need to fast before this test unless your doctor instructs otherwise.

What do the results mean?

Normal albumin levels typically range from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL (35-50 g/L), though reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Low albumin levels (hypoalbuminemia) can indicate liver disease, kidney disease (especially nephrotic syndrome), malnutrition, inflammation, or certain digestive disorders. High albumin levels (hyperalbuminemia) are less common and often indicate dehydration.