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Serum or plasma concentration of **albumin**

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

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports the immune system. Low levels may indicate kidney problems, malnutrition, or liver disease.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports overall health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109430-9
Short code
ENA SS-A 52kD Ab Msmt Fld
Synonyms
ENA SS-A 52kD Ab Msmt Fld
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 Albumin Tested?

Doctors may order an albumin test to check for conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. It can also help monitor how well your body is retaining fluids or responding to treatments.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The lab measures the amount of albumin in your serum or plasma using an immunoassay method.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are reported as a concentration (e.g., grams per deciliter). Low albumin levels may suggest underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet, kidney or liver disease, infections, or certain medications. Your doctor will discuss these with you if needed.

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 be caused by conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or severe infections. It may also appear if you’re losing protein through wounds or burns.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but may occur with dehydration, certain medications, or conditions that reduce fluid in the body’s tissues.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid heavy meals before the test. If you’re on certain medications, let your doctor know to ensure accurate results.
  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