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: Prealbumin (Transthyretin) by Immunoassay

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

: This test measures prealbumin, a protein made by the liver that reflects recent nutritional status and can help assess liver function.

Quick summary

[": Prealbumin gives a short-term picture of protein status because it changes faster than many other blood proteins."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13991-5
Short code
Prealb MFr Ur Elph
Synonyms
Prealb MFr Ur Elph
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
7.35
Ref high
7.45
Critical range
7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
electrophoresis
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

: What Is Prealbumin?

: Prealbumin, also called transthyretin, is a protein produced mainly by the liver. It carries thyroid hormones and vitamin A in the blood. Because it has a short lifespan in the body, its level shifts relatively quickly when nutrition or liver health changes.

: Why the Test Is Ordered

: Your clinician may order this test to help evaluate nutritional status, especially during illness or after surgery, or as part of a liver function assessment. It is often used alongside other tests rather than on its own.

: How the Test Is Done

: A small blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm, usually from the inner elbow. The blood is then measured in the laboratory using an immunoassay, a method that uses antibodies to detect and quantify the protein.

: What the Results Can Mean

: Results are interpreted together with your medical history, diet, and other lab tests. A level outside the expected range can occur with poor nutrition, inflammation, infection, liver disease, or other conditions. Your clinician will explain what your result means for you.

Reference range

NCBI: pH 7.35-7.45N/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: Prealbumin

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast before this test?
: Fasting requirements vary by laboratory and clinical context. Follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider or the lab that will collect your sample.
: Can a low prealbumin level mean I am malnourished?
: Not necessarily. Low levels can also result from inflammation, infection, or liver disease. Your clinician will consider your overall health, diet, and other test results before drawing conclusions.
: Is this test the same as albumin?
: No. Prealbumin and albumin are different proteins, though both are made by the liver and can reflect nutritional and liver status. Prealbumin tends to change more quickly, which is why it is sometimes used for shorter-term monitoring.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy