Albuminsnvmcnc
This test measures the amount of albumin protein in the fluid surrounding your joints to help diagnose joint conditions.
{"Albumin is a protein found in joint fluid that helps diagnose arthritis and joint diseases","The test uses a sample of fluid drawn from your joint with a needle","Low albumin levels may indicate inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis","Results help doctors distinguish between different types of joint problems"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1752-5
- Short code
- ALB SF
- Synonyms
- Albumin Snv-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile collection tube, preferably plain red-top tube or EDTA tube (lavender top) to prevent clot formation. Some laboratories accept fluid in heparinized tubes.
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 1
- Ref high
- 2.5
- Critical range
- 1.5 not specified – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Colorimetric assay using bromcresol green (BCG) or bromcresol purple (BCP) dye-binding method
- CPT
- 82150
- SNOMED
- 258210002
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of synovial fluid is typically sufficient for albumin analysis.
- Stability
- Synovial fluid should be analyzed as soon as possible, preferably within 2-4 hours of collection. If delay is necessary, refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24-48 hours. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Synovial Fluid Albumin test measures the amount of albumin, a protein produced by your liver, in the fluid that lubricates your joints (called synovial fluid). This fluid is extracted from your joint using a thin needle in a procedure called joint aspiration or arthrocentesis.
Why is it performed?
Your doctor may order this test if you have joint pain, swelling, or stiffness. The albumin level in synovial fluid helps doctors understand what's happening inside your joint. It can indicate whether you have inflammatory arthritis (like rheumatoid arthritis), osteoarthritis, an infection, or other joint conditions.
How is the test done?
During the test, your doctor will: 1) Clean the area over your joint, 2) Numb the area with a local anesthetic, 3) Insert a thin needle into the joint to withdraw a small amount of fluid, and 4) Send the fluid to a laboratory for analysis. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes.
Reference range
1.0-2.5 g/dLnot specified
No special preparation; sample obtained by arthrocentesis
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the joint aspiration procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Are there any risks to this test?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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