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Serum/plasma mass 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 immune function. Your test measures how much albumin is present in your blood.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels help doctors check for protein loss, kidney issues, or nutritional deficiencies."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33059-7
Short code
FP Amn Ql
Synonyms
FP Amn Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Albumin is crucial for keeping blood vessels intact and preventing fluid from leaking into tissues. Low levels may signal conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition, while high levels could indicate dehydration or certain medical treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, or if plasma is used, it might be collected from an arterial sample. Tell your doctor about any medications or recent illnesses.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low albumin levels might be due to kidney disease, liver failure, severe infections, or poor nutrition. High levels could result from dehydration, certain medications, or chronic diseases like diabetes. These results often prompt further testing to identify the underlying cause.

What the Results Mean

Your results will be compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. A doctor will interpret your results in the context of your overall health and symptoms. Follow-up tests may include kidney function checks or liver panels if needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How often do I need this test?
Albumin tests are often ordered periodically for patients with chronic conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. Your doctor may recommend this test based on your symptoms, medical history, or treatment plan.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your albumin levels are low, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, treatments for underlying conditions, or additional tests to monitor kidney or liver function. If high, they may investigate causes like dehydration or medication side effects.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test unless instructed otherwise. Avoid alcohol or heavy meals 2 hours before the blood draw if your doctor specifies it.
  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