Substance concentration of albumin in serum/plasma
This test measures the amount of albumin, a key protein in your blood, which helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function.
["Albumin levels can indicate overall protein status and kidney function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 107162-0
- Short code
- LPa DBS-sCnc
- Synonyms
- LPa DBS-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- turbidimetry
- 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 is vital for transporting nutrients, maintaining blood pressure, and supporting the immune system. Low levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while high levels could be linked to dehydration or certain medical treatments.
What Can Affect Your Results
Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet (low-protein diets can lower levels), chronic illnesses (like kidney disease or liver disease), infections, or certain medications. Recent blood loss, severe burns, or stress can also temporarily affect results.
Common Conditions Monitored
Doctors often check albumin levels to diagnose or monitor conditions such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or severe infections. It’s also used in assessing fluid balance in critically ill patients.
What to Expect During the Test
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless. You may feel slight discomfort, but no special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low albumin levels may signal underlying health issues that require medical attention, such as protein loss due to kidney or liver disease, poor nutrition, or chronic inflammation. High levels might indicate dehydration or certain inflammatory conditions. Regular monitoring helps track progress in treating conditions like cirrhosis or kidney disease.
Short name
Albumin Level (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What do my results mean?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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