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Estrogen (Estradiol) Bound to Albumin in Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of estradiol (a key female sex hormone) that is bound to albumin in your blood. Albumin is a protein in your blood that helps transport hormones like estradiol.

Quick summary

["Understanding your estradiol levels—especially the bound fraction—can help assess hormone balance and reproductive health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17844-2
Short code
Estradiol Albumin Bnd SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Estradiol Albumin Bnd SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
1.5 N/A – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82040
SNOMED
22383007
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 This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms related to hormone imbalances, such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, or conditions affecting hormone metabolism. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to evaluate specific hormone transport dynamics.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically required, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if your test is part of a larger metabolic or endocrine panel. Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol for at least 30 minutes before the test.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes only a few minutes. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. Bound estradiol levels can provide insights into how your body is processing and transporting this hormone, but they are not standalone diagnostic tools. Your provider will discuss findings with you.

Reference range

Adult: 3.5-5.0 g/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Albumin-Bound Estradiol

Frequently asked questions

What Might Cause This Test to Be Ordered?
This test may be used in specialized clinical scenarios, such as evaluating hormone-related conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hormone replacement therapy monitoring, or research studies focused on hormone transport mechanisms. It can also help assess how well albumin is functioning in hormone binding.
How Does This Test Differ from Other Estradiol Tests?
Unlike total estradiol tests, which measure all forms of estradiol (free, bound, and protein-bound), this test specifically focuses on the estradiol fraction bound to albumin. Free estradiol (not bound to albumin) is also measured separately in some cases and has different clinical relevance.
Can Diet or Lifestyle Affect Albumin-Bound Estradiol Levels?
Dietary factors like protein intake may influence albumin levels, which could indirectly affect albumin-bound estradiol. However, lifestyle changes such as exercise or stress management may not directly alter this specific measurement. Always follow your provider’s advice regarding test-related preparations.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy