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Mass concentration of albumin in serum

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 kidney function and overall protein status in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27074-4
Short code
MDEA Mlk-mCnc
Synonyms
MDEA Mlk-mCnc
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 kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, or other conditions that affect protein levels in your blood. It can also help monitor treatment for conditions like kidney failure or severe infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or a blood sample collected from a vein in your arm or hand. The process is quick and usually painless.

What the Results Mean

Lower than expected albumin levels might suggest conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. Higher than expected levels may indicate dehydration or certain genetic conditions. Your results will be discussed with your healthcare provider to determine the next steps.

Common Conditions Monitored

Albumin levels are often checked in people with chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, severe infections, or those undergoing dialysis. It can also be part of routine blood work to assess overall health and nutritional status.

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 levels can be caused by conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, severe infections, or burns. Certain medications and chronic illnesses may also contribute.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common and may result from dehydration, certain genetic disorders, or conditions that cause the body to produce extra albumin, such as severe muscle breakdown.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your health condition and medical needs. Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need it based on your specific situation and ongoing treatments.
  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