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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (mass concentration)

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

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function. Your doctor may order this test to check for nutritional deficiencies, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels help assess overall protein status and organ health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111442-0
Short code
ENA RNP Ab Msmt Ser
Synonyms
ENA RNP Ab Msmt Ser
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?

Doctors may order albumin tests to evaluate your body’s ability to produce proteins, detect kidney or liver issues, or monitor conditions like malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, or certain cancers. It’s also used in pregnancy to check for preeclampsia risk.

What does a low or high result mean?

Low albumin levels may indicate poor nutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems, while very low levels could signal severe illness. High levels are less common but may occur with dehydration or certain genetic conditions.

How is this test performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. The test measures the amount of albumin protein in the sample using a specialized lab method.

What can affect test results?

Factors like diet (especially protein intake), kidney or liver disease, pregnancy, infections, or certain medications can influence albumin levels. Recent blood loss, dehydration, or severe illness may also impact results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin level

Frequently asked questions

What are the typical reference ranges?
Reference ranges vary by lab but generally fall between 3.5 and 5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL) for serum or plasma. Your specific range depends on your age, health status, and lab’s standards.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can usually eat and drink normally unless instructed otherwise. Avoid alcohol or heavy meals 24 hours before the test if your provider specifies it, as they may affect protein levels.
  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