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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (protein)

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

Albumin is a key protein in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function. Your doctor may check this test to assess protein levels, kidney function, or nutritional health.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps regulate fluid balance and immune defense; low levels may signal kidney issues or malnutrition."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63307-3
Short code
ENA PM/SCL Ab Fld Ql IA
Synonyms
ENA PM/SCL Ab Fld Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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?

Doctors order albumin tests to evaluate overall protein status, detect kidney disease (like nephrotic syndrome), or monitor nutritional health. It may also be checked after surgery, during pregnancy, or in cases of chronic illness.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (serum or plasma) or, rarely, urine. Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before if fasting is required (though this test is not fasting-specific).

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low albumin may indicate poor nutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems. High levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions.

Common Conditions Linked to Albumin Levels

Low albumin is often seen in chronic kidney disease, liver failure, or severe infections. High albumin may signal dehydration or conditions like multiple myeloma. Always discuss results with your provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin can result from poor nutrition (e.g., malabsorption), chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or severe infections. It may also appear after surgery or in cases of excessive protein loss (e.g., nephrotic syndrome).
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing. Follow-up with your doctor if you have questions about your specific results.
Can diet affect albumin test results?
Dietary protein intake may influence albumin levels, but this test is not fasting-specific. If your doctor suspects nutritional issues, they may recommend additional tests or dietary 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