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Albuminserplbcpscnc

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

A blood test that measures the level of albumin, a key protein in your blood, using a special dye called bromocresol purple.

Quick summary

{"Albumin is a protein made by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your body","The BCP method uses a purple dye that binds to albumin to measure its concentration","Low albumin levels may indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or malnutrition","This test is commonly part of routine health checkups and liver function tests","No special preparation is typically needed for this blood test"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
62234-0
Short code
ALB
Synonyms
Albumin SerPl BCP-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST/Gel tube) 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
Bromocresol purple (BCP) dye binding spectrophotometric method
CPT
82040
SNOMED
31311008
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 30 days; Frozen (-20°C): 12 months
Hemolysis max
400
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The serum albumin test measures the amount of albumin in your blood using the bromocresol purple (BCP) dye binding method. Albumin is a crucial protein produced by your liver that plays several important roles in maintaining your health, including keeping fluid in your blood vessels, transporting hormones and vitamins, and helping tissues and organs function properly.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where the bromocresol purple dye is added. This dye binds specifically to albumin molecules in the blood sample, and the intensity of the color change is measured to determine the exact amount of albumin present. Results are typically available within a day or two.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test as part of a routine health examination, to check liver function, or if you have symptoms such as swelling in your legs or abdomen, unexplained fatigue, or unusual weight changes. It is also useful for monitoring chronic conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition, and for evaluating your nutritional status.

Understanding your results

Normal albumin levels typically range from 35 to 50 g/L (3.5-5.0 g/dL). However, the exact normal range may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and your specific situation. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your overall health, medical history, and other test findings.

Reference range

3.5-5.0 g/dLnot specified

Specimen: serum

No special preparation or fasting required

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
Typically, no fasting is required for a serum albumin test. However, your doctor may ask you to fast if this test is combined with other tests that require fasting, such as cholesterol or glucose tests. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
The risks are minimal and similar to any standard blood draw. You may experience slight bruising, bleeding, or rarely, infection at the puncture site. Some people may feel lightheaded during or after the blood draw. These side effects usually resolve quickly.
How often should I have my albumin levels checked?
The frequency of testing depends on your individual health situation. For routine health checkups, albumin may be checked annually as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel. If you have a chronic condition like liver or kidney disease, your doctor may order this test more frequently to monitor your condition and treatment effectiveness.
Can medications affect my albumin test results?
Certain medications can affect albumin levels. Anabolic steroids, androgens, and growth hormones may increase albumin levels, while certain medications like birth control pills, aspirin, and some antibiotics may decrease them. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before the test.
What happens if my albumin levels are abnormal?
If your albumin levels are abnormal, your doctor will likely order additional tests to determine the cause. Treatment depends on the underlying condition. For low albumin, this may include dietary changes, treating underlying liver or kidney disease, or addressing nutritional deficiencies. Your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific situation.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Albumin Blood TestSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Low AlbuminSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - AlbuminSource

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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