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Serum Albumin Test (BCP Method)

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

This test measures the amount of albumin, an important protein made by your liver, in your blood using the bromocresol purple (BCP) dye binding method. Albumin helps keep fluid balanced in your body and carries hormones, vitamins, and medications through your bloodstream. Your doctor may order this test to evaluate liver function, kidney health, and nutritional status, often as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or liver function tests. A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, and results are usually ready within 1-2 days.

Quick summary

{"Albumin is a protein made by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your blood","Low albumin levels may indicate liver disease, kidney problems, or poor nutrition","High albumin levels are usually due to dehydration","The test requires a simple blood draw","Results help doctors assess your overall health and organ function"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77148-5
Short code
ALB_BCP
Synonyms
Albumin SerPlBld BCP-mCnc
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
0–120 years
Method
Bromocresol purple (BCP) dye binding spectrophotometry
CPT
82040
SNOMED
27000004
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL of serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 2 weeks; Frozen (-20°C or below): several months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The serum albumin test measures the amount of albumin, a crucial protein produced by your liver, in your blood. Albumin helps maintain proper fluid balance in your body and acts as a carrier for hormones, vitamins, and medications. This test uses the bromocresol purple (BCP) dye binding method, where the purple dye binds to albumin in your blood sample, and the amount of binding is measured to determine albumin concentration.

Why is this test important?

Albumin levels provide important information about your liver function, kidney health, and nutritional status. Your doctor may order this test as part of a routine health checkup or to monitor certain conditions such as liver disease, kidney disease, or malnutrition. It is often included in a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or liver function tests.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is collected into a tube and sent to a laboratory for analysis using the BCP dye binding method. The procedure only takes a few minutes and is generally well-tolerated.

How to prepare for the test?

In most cases, no special preparation is needed for a serum albumin test. However, your doctor may ask you to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test if it is being done with other blood tests. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions and inform them about any medications or supplements you are taking.

Reference range

3.5-5.0 g/dLnot specified

Specimen: serum

No fasting or special preparation required

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Does the test hurt?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. This is generally well-tolerated, and the discomfort usually goes away quickly.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1-2 days, depending on the laboratory. Your doctor will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
What can affect my albumin levels?
Several factors can influence albumin levels, including: severe infections or inflammation, certain medications (such as steroids), pregnancy, and recent intravenous fluid administration. It is important to discuss any relevant health conditions or medications with your doctor.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is not typically required for a standalone albumin test. However, if your blood test includes other tests that require fasting (like glucose or lipid panel), your doctor will instruct you to fast. Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.
What happens if my albumin is abnormal?
An abnormal albumin level alone does not provide a definitive diagnosis. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the cause. Additional tests may be needed to identify the underlying condition.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Albumin Blood TestSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Low AlbuminSource
  3. 3
    ARUP Consult - 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