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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)

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

This test measures the amount of albumin, a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels can indicate overall protein status and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111440-4
Short code
ENA Scl70 Ab Msmt Ser
Synonyms
ENA Scl70 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 Albumin Levels Matter

Albumin is vital for keeping fluids where they need to be in your body. Low levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels might be seen in dehydration or certain chronic conditions. This screening test doesn’t provide exact numbers but helps doctors assess if further testing is needed.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually required. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding issues, let your doctor know beforehand.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low albumin levels might be linked to poor nutrition, liver disease, kidney disease, or severe infections. High levels could be due to dehydration or certain medications. This screening doesn’t replace detailed lab work but can guide further investigation.

What Your Results Mean

Since this is a screening test, results are qualitative (positive or negative). If your doctor finds your screening result abnormal, they may order a more precise test to check your albumin concentration.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level (Screen)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive screening result mean?
A positive screening result suggests that your albumin level may be outside the expected range. This doesn’t mean you have a specific disease, but it may prompt your doctor to order more detailed tests to investigate potential causes.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. This test is typically done on an empty stomach for other blood tests, but since this is a screening, no fasting is usually required.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
  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