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Albumin in Serum (or Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of albumin, a protein found in your blood, which helps maintain fluid balance and supports the immune system.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports your body’s immune function."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36970-2
Short code
Deprecated Abd XR Decub Port
Synonyms
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Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may check albumin levels to assess how well your kidneys are working, to monitor liver function, or to evaluate overall protein status in your blood. It can also help diagnose conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. If you’re on a blood thinner, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Albumin levels can vary based on health conditions, diet, and other factors. Low levels might suggest malnutrition, kidney or liver problems, or inflammation, while very high levels could indicate dehydration or certain medical conditions.

Common Conditions Affecting Albumin

Low albumin levels may be linked to chronic kidney disease, liver disease, severe infections, or poor nutrition. High levels might be seen in dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Albumin is a key protein that helps maintain blood pressure and supports the immune system. Low levels can indicate underlying health issues that need attention, while high levels may signal dehydration or other conditions requiring further evaluation.

Short name

Albumin

Frequently asked questions

What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin can result from conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or chronic infections. It may also occur due to excessive protein loss from wounds or burns.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but can occur with dehydration, certain cancers (like multiple myeloma), or in some genetic disorders. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your overall health.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often to check albumin levels based on your health needs, such as monitoring kidney or liver function, managing chronic conditions, or assessing nutritional status.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy