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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (electrophoresis-based)

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

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

Quick summary

["Albumin levels help assess protein status and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111890-0
Short code
Diam Blry tr Endscpy
Synonyms
Diam Blry tr Endscpy
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
endoscopy
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 Albumin Levels Matter

Albumin is vital for transporting nutrients, maintaining blood pressure, and supporting the immune system. Low levels may indicate conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration or chronic inflammation.

What Can Affect Your Results

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet, liver function, kidney health, chronic illnesses, and certain medications. Recent blood loss, severe infections, or stress can also temporarily alter results.

Common Uses for This Test

Doctors often use albumin tests to diagnose or monitor conditions like malnutrition, liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis), kidney disease, or severe infections. It may also be checked during pregnancy or in cases of unexplained weight loss.

What to Expect During the Test

A simple blood draw is used to collect a sample. The test involves separating blood components (like serum or plasma) and analyzing the albumin content using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins by size and charge.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results back?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special preparation is needed. However, avoid alcohol or heavy meals 24 hours before testing to ensure accurate results.
Will this test be part of a larger panel?
Yes, albumin testing is often included in broader protein electrophoresis panels or as part of routine blood work for conditions like kidney or liver disease.
  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