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Serum Albumin (Electrophoresis)

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

This test measures the protein albumin in your blood, which helps assess overall protein balance, kidney function, and nutritional health.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels can signal health risks like malnutrition or kidney disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6106-9
Short code
Egg White IgE Qn
Synonyms
Egg White IgE Qn
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 Albumin Matters in Your Blood

Albumin is a key protein produced by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your body. It also carries important nutrients and medications through your bloodstream. Low levels may indicate poor nutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions.

How This Test Works

Your blood sample is analyzed using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge. This helps identify albumin levels among other proteins in your serum.

What Normal Results Mean

While specific reference ranges vary by lab, albumin is typically measured as part of a broader protein profile. Abnormal results may prompt further testing to explore underlying causes.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors may order albumin testing to check for malnutrition, liver disease, kidney issues, or fluid imbalances. It’s also used in monitoring chronic conditions like heart failure or kidney disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low albumin levels can signal malnutrition, liver cirrhosis, or kidney disease, as these conditions reduce protein production or increase protein loss. High albumin levels may suggest dehydration or certain inflammatory states. Monitoring albumin helps guide treatment for conditions like chronic kidney disease or heart failure.

Short name

Albumin Profile

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal albumin levels?
Abnormal albumin levels can result from conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, kidney problems, or infections. Medications, pregnancy, or certain medical treatments may also affect results.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Can diet affect albumin test results?
Yes, diet plays a role. Low-protein diets or poor nutrition can lower albumin levels, while adequate protein intake supports normal production. Avoiding alcohol and managing chronic conditions can also help maintain stable results.
  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