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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (total protein fraction)

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

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance, supports immune function, and carries nutrients. Your doctor may check albumin levels to assess overall health, kidney function, or nutritional status.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps regulate fluid balance and supports healing—low levels may signal health concerns like malnutrition or kidney disease."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
89443-6
Short code
OB Admit H&P note
Synonyms
OB Admit H&P note
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
obstetrics
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 plays a critical role in keeping fluids where they need to be in your body. It also helps transport important substances like hormones and medications. Low albumin can indicate problems such as malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney issues, while high levels might suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions.

How Albumin is Tested

This test measures the amount of albumin in your blood, typically collected from a vein (serum) or processed plasma. The test is usually done using a simple blood draw and analyzed quickly in a lab.

What Normal Results Mean

While reference ranges vary by lab, albumin levels are often reported as a percentage of total protein in your blood. Results outside the expected range may prompt further evaluation.

Common Causes of Low Albumin

Low albumin may result from conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver problems, severe infections, or poor nutrition. It can also occur after major surgery or burns.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a low albumin level mean?
A low albumin level may signal underlying health issues like malnutrition, kidney or liver disease, or inflammation. Your doctor will consider other factors, such as your medical history and symptoms, to determine the cause.
What does a high albumin level mean?
High albumin levels can sometimes indicate dehydration or certain medical conditions, but they’re less common. Your doctor will review your results in the context of your overall health.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test periodically if you have conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition. Follow-up testing depends on your specific needs and medical history.
  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