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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (mass concentration)

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 check your albumin level to assess how well your kidneys are filtering waste or to monitor conditions like liver disease or malnutrition.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps regulate fluid balance and immune function; low levels may signal kidney or liver issues or poor nutrition."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77111-3
Short code
KARS Fam Mut Anl Bld/T
Synonyms
KARS Fam Mut Anl Bld/T
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
molgen
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Doctors order albumin tests to evaluate kidney function, detect liver problems, or check for conditions like malnutrition, chronic kidney disease, or severe infections. It may also be used in monitoring patients with heart failure or certain cancers.

What Does a Low or High Albumin Level Mean?

Low albumin levels may indicate poor nutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, or inflammation. High levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Sample Collection and Preparation

This test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is collected in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis. If you’re on blood thinners, your doctor may advise against certain medications before the test.

What to Expect Before the Test

You can eat and drink normally before the test. Avoid heavy meals or alcohol 24 hours beforehand if your doctor recommends it. Let your doctor know about any medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs or supplements, as they may affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition. For example, people with kidney or liver disease may need regular monitoring, while others might only need it once or twice a year.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
Generally, you can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Some tests may require fasting, but albumin tests do not. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
What are the possible side effects of blood drawing?
Most people experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, there may be a slight swelling or bleeding. If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection (like fever or redness), contact your doctor.
  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