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Serum/plasma rate of albumin degradation (or breakdown rate)

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

This test measures how quickly your body breaks down albumin, a key protein in your blood. It helps assess how well your liver and kidneys are supporting protein balance.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify conditions affecting protein metabolism."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45366-2
Short code
LPT 2.0 ug PHA Bld-nRate
Synonyms
LPT 2.0 ug PHA Bld-nRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, swelling, or signs of kidney or liver problems. It can also be part of monitoring for chronic diseases like kidney disease or certain cancers.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where albumin levels and breakdown products are analyzed over time to calculate the degradation rate.

What Does a Result Mean?

Results are not provided with specific numeric ranges. Instead, they’re interpreted in relation to your overall health and clinical context. Elevated rates may suggest liver or kidney dysfunction, while normal rates help confirm stable protein metabolism.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is less commonly used alone but may be part of broader evaluations for conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. It can also be useful in research or specialized clinical studies.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Degradation Rate

Frequently asked questions

What causes high or low albumin degradation rates?
High rates may indicate liver disease (like cirrhosis), kidney disease, or severe infections. Low rates could suggest protein malnutrition or certain metabolic disorders. Always discuss results with your provider.
How often should this test be repeated?
Frequency depends on your condition and treatment plan. Your provider will determine how often to check this test based on your medical history and symptoms.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes, diet can influence protein metabolism. High-protein diets or deficiencies may impact albumin levels and degradation. Your provider may recommend dietary adjustments if needed.
  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