Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (electrochemiluminescence immunoassay)

What Albumin Measures

Albumin is a key protein in your blood that plays a role in transporting nutrients, maintaining blood pressure, and supporting immune defenses. Low levels may indicate conditions like kidney disease, malnutrition, or severe illness, while high levels might suggest dehydration or certain liver disorders.

Why It Matters in Your Health

Your body produces albumin in the liver. Levels can drop if your liver isn’t working well, if you’re not eating enough protein, or if your kidneys aren’t filtering blood properly. Keeping albumin in a healthy range helps your body function properly.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low albumin levels may be linked to chronic kidney disease, liver disease, severe infections, or poor nutrition. High levels could result from dehydration, certain medications, or conditions like multiple myeloma.

When You Might Need This Test

Doctors often order albumin tests to check for kidney or liver problems, monitor nutritional status, or assess how well your body is retaining fluids, especially in people with heart or liver disease.