Albumin (Serum) by Bromocresol Purple Dye Binding Method
This test measures the amount of albumin, a key protein found in your blood serum, which helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function.
["Albumin levels can indicate overall protein status and kidney function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6793-4
- Short code
- Prealb SerPl IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prealb SerPl IA-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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
What Albumin Does in Your Body
Albumin is one of the most abundant proteins in your blood. It helps distribute nutrients, maintain blood pressure, and transport hormones and medications. Low levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.
How the Test Works
The test uses a dye-binding method (bromocresol purple) to measure albumin concentration. A small sample of your blood is sent to a lab where the dye binds to albumin, and the amount of dye bound is measured to determine your albumin level.
Why You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for protein loss in urine (proteinuria), assess nutritional status, monitor kidney or liver health, or evaluate conditions like chronic kidney disease or severe infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding, let your provider know.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low albumin levels can signal serious health issues, such as kidney disease (where albumin may leak into urine), liver disease (where production is impaired), or severe malnutrition. High levels may be seen in dehydration or certain genetic conditions. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Albumin (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my albumin test result be different from what I expected?
Can diet affect my albumin test results?
What should I do if my albumin test shows low levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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