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Serum/plasma mass concentration of albumin

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

This test measures the amount of albumin, a protein found in your blood, which 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
8096-0
Short code
GH Ab SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
GH Ab SerPl-aCnc
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions affecting protein levels, such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses in patients with chronic illnesses.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Lower-than-expected albumin levels may suggest poor nutrition, kidney problems, or liver disease. Higher-than-expected levels might indicate dehydration or certain genetic conditions. Your results will be compared to standard ranges for your age and health status.

Common Conditions Linked to Albumin Levels

Abnormal albumin levels can signal underlying health issues, such as chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or severe infections. Low albumin is sometimes seen in people with long-term illness or those who haven’t eaten enough protein.

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 result from poor nutrition (not eating enough protein), kidney disease, liver problems, severe infections, or conditions like burns or chronic inflammation. It may also appear in people with long-term illness or those who lose protein through wounds.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but can occur with dehydration, certain genetic disorders (like nephrotic syndrome), or in some cases of severe inflammation. Rarely, it may be linked to high-protein diets or metabolic conditions.
Does diet affect albumin test results?
Yes, diet plays a role. Eating enough protein (found in meats, dairy, beans, and whole grains) helps maintain normal albumin levels. Avoiding excessive alcohol or extreme diets may also support stable 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