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Serum or plasma mass 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 helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports your immune system—low levels may signal health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43508-1
Short code
MR Axilla-L
Synonyms
MR Axilla-L
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
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?

Doctors may order albumin testing to evaluate overall protein status, assess kidney or liver function, or monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, malnutrition, or inflammation. It can also help diagnose or track progression of certain diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw (from a vein) or a urine sample collected, depending on the test type. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

Common Conditions Monitored

Low albumin levels may indicate malnutrition, kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, or severe infections. High levels could suggest dehydration or certain inflammatory conditions, though this is less common.

How Results Are Interpreted

Results are compared to your baseline or clinical picture rather than a single reference range. Your doctor will discuss what your specific result means in the context of your health.

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 can result from poor nutrition, kidney disease, liver problems, chronic inflammation, or excessive protein loss (e.g., from wounds or diarrhea). It may also appear in conditions like nephrotic syndrome or severe infections.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health condition and doctor’s recommendations. For example, people with kidney or liver disease may need monitoring more often than others.
Can diet affect albumin levels?
Yes—eating enough protein (like lean meats, eggs, or dairy) supports albumin production. Severe dietary restrictions or malnutrition can lower levels, while balanced diets help maintain normal levels.
  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