Canine Serum Albumin — Qualitative (Deprecated Test)
A blood test that checks for serum albumin in dogs. This older qualitative test has been deprecated and may be replaced by a quantitative albumin measurement.
["This deprecated test checks whether albumin is present in a dog's serum, but a quantitative albumin result is generally more informative."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 25395-5
- Short code
- Deprecated Dog Serum Alb IgE RAST Ql
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Dog Serum Alb IgE RAST Ql
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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
What is this test?
This test examines a dog's blood serum for albumin, a protein made by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance and transports substances in the blood. The slug identifies it as a qualitative, deprecated test, meaning it reports presence or absence rather than a precise concentration.
Why might I need this test?
A veterinarian may use albumin testing as part of evaluating a dog's nutrition, liver function, gastrointestinal disease, kidney protein loss, dehydration, or other causes of illness. Because this version of the test is deprecated, a current quantitative albumin test is usually preferred.
How is the test performed?
Blood is collected from the dog, and the serum—the liquid portion after the cells have separated—is analyzed. The slug does not specify the laboratory method, and a qualitative result provides less detail than a measured albumin concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
Preparation depends on the veterinarian's sampling plan. Fasting may occasionally be requested, but it should not be attempted unless the veterinarian specifically instructs you to withhold food, because fasting is not appropriate for every blood test.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Canine serum albumin
Frequently asked questions
Is this still the preferred way to measure albumin in dogs?
What does a qualitative albumin result mean?
Can other blood tests help interpret an abnormal albumin result?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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