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Prealbumin (Transthyretin) in Serum

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

This test measures the level of prealbumin, a protein in your blood that helps transport thyroid hormones and vitamin A. It can reflect recent nutritional status and protein synthesis over the past 2–3 weeks.

Quick summary

["Prealbumin helps assess how well your body is using protein and can indicate nutritional health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
85694-8
Short code
Documenation prev rubella tx
Synonyms
Documenation prev rubella tx
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a prealbumin test to evaluate your nutritional status, especially if you have conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or chronic illnesses. It can also help monitor how well you’re responding to treatment for conditions affecting protein levels, such as cancer or liver disease.

What Does a Low Prealbumin Level Mean?

Low prealbumin levels may suggest poor nutrition, increased protein breakdown, or a condition that affects protein synthesis. For example, it could indicate malnutrition, severe infections, or certain cancers. High levels might be seen in rare genetic disorders but are less common.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to measure prealbumin levels using a specialized lab test method, often an immunoassay.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored With This Test?

Prealbumin is frequently used to track nutritional status in patients with conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or those undergoing chemotherapy. It can also help assess recovery from severe illness or injury.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Prealbumin

Frequently asked questions

What does a prealbumin test tell me about my health?
It provides insight into how well your body is using protein in the last few days. Low levels may indicate poor nutrition, illness, or increased protein loss, while high levels are less common but could signal genetic conditions.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine the frequency based on your medical condition. For example, patients with chronic illnesses may need it monthly or more often to track progress.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Typically, no fasting is required for this test, but follow your provider’s instructions, as some labs may have specific guidelines for blood draws.
  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