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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 immune function. Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels help assess overall protein status and organ health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42664-3
Short code
HLACW
Synonyms
—
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 plays a key role in keeping fluids where they need to be in your body. Low levels can indicate problems with your kidneys, liver, or digestive system, while high levels may suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet, chronic illnesses (like kidney or liver disease), infections, or medications. Your doctor may also consider other health conditions when interpreting results.

How Is This Test Done?

A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab where albumin is measured using a specialized test that detects its presence in your serum or plasma.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., grams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, very low levels may signal malnutrition or organ dysfunction, while very high levels could be due to dehydration or other causes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Albumin levels are often used to monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or severe infections. Low albumin can also be a sign of poor nutrient absorption, which may require dietary adjustments or medical treatment.

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin levels can result from conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or severe infections. Certain medications and chronic illnesses may also contribute.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but can occur with dehydration, certain genetic disorders, or in some cases of severe inflammation. Your doctor will review your medical history to determine the cause.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will decide how often to check albumin levels based on your health condition. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have ongoing health issues like kidney or liver disease.
  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