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Albumin in Body Fluid Test

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test detects the presence of albumin, a protein made by the liver, in fluid collected from body cavities such as the abdomen or chest, helping your healthcare provider distinguish between different types of fluid accumulations and determine the underlying cause of the buildup.

Quick summary

{"Measures albumin protein in fluid from body cavities (e.g., abdomen, chest)","Helps doctors determine if fluid is a transudate or exudate","Guides treatment decisions for conditions like ascites or pleural effusion","Sample is collected through a procedure called paracentesis or thoracentesis","Results help identify the underlying cause of fluid buildup"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43713-7
Short code
ALB PF
Synonyms
Albumin Fld Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
not specified
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
1.5 not specified – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Immunoturbidimetric assay or Bromocresol green (BCG) colorimetric method
CPT
82043
SNOMED
271244001
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Albumin in Body Fluid test measures the amount of albumin protein present in fluid that has accumulated in body cavities, such as the abdomen (ascitic fluid) or chest (pleural fluid). Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that helps maintain blood volume and pressure. When this test detects albumin in collected body fluid, it provides important information about the nature and cause of the fluid accumulation.

How is the sample collected?

The fluid sample is collected by a healthcare provider using a needle and syringe. The procedure depends on the location of the fluid: for abdominal fluid, it's called paracentesis; for chest fluid, it's called thoracentesis. The area is first cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia before the needle is inserted to withdraw the fluid. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have unexplained fluid buildup in your body cavities. This fluid accumulation (called effusion) can occur due to various conditions including heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, infections, cancer, or inflammatory conditions. The test helps determine the cause so appropriate treatment can be provided.

Reference range

Adult: 3.5-5.0 g/dLnot specified

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

The albumin presence in body fluid helps classify the fluid as either transudate or exudate. Transudates are caused by systemic conditions that alter blood pressure or protein balance (like heart failure or liver cirrhosis), while exudates result from local inflammation or infection. This distinction is crucial because treatment approaches differ significantly - transudates are managed by treating the underlying condition, while exudates may require procedures to drain the fluid or treat the specific cause like infection or cancer.

Frequently asked questions

Does the test hurt?
You may feel a brief sting from the numbing injection, followed by pressure or mild discomfort during the fluid collection. The procedure is generally well-tolerated by most patients.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1-2 days, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results and explain what they mean for your health.
Are there any risks from the fluid collection procedure?
Minor risks include slight bleeding, bruising, or discomfort at the puncture site. Serious complications like infection or organ puncture are rare when performed by experienced healthcare professionals.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is not typically required for this specific test since it analyzes the body fluid, not blood. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Body fluid analysisSource
  2. 2
    May Clinic - Pleural effusionSource

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy