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Albumin in Serum (Mass Concentration)

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
35535-4
Short code
Egg White IgG-mCnc
Synonyms
Egg White IgG-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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, hormones, and medications in your blood. Low levels may indicate malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions. Your doctor may order this test to monitor your overall health, especially if you have chronic illnesses like kidney disease or liver problems.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can offer ways to make it more comfortable.

Common Causes of Low or High Albumin

Low albumin levels might be due to poor nutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or severe infections. High albumin could result from dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma. Your doctor will consider your medical history and other test results to determine the cause.

When This Test Might Be Ordered

Doctors often check albumin levels to evaluate kidney function, monitor chronic diseases (like cirrhosis or heart failure), or assess nutritional status in patients who may not be eating well. It may also be part of routine blood work for people with diabetes or autoimmune diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. If you have a chronic illness like kidney disease or liver disease, your doctor may order this test regularly to track changes. For routine check-ups, it might be done less often, such as once a year.
What do my results mean?
Your results will be compared to a general reference range provided by your lab. While albumin levels can give clues about your health, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. Your doctor will discuss your specific results in detail, considering other tests and your medical history.
Can I change my diet before this test?
Yes, you can continue your usual diet unless your doctor advises otherwise. Some tests require fasting, but albumin testing does not. If you have questions about diet, ask your healthcare provider for guidance.
  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