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Serum albumin concentration (mass concentration)

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

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance, supports immune function, and transports nutrients. Low levels may indicate health concerns like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports overall health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77192-3
Short code
Prealb SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Prealb SerPl-sCnc
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 Albumin Levels Matter

Albumin plays a key role in your body’s ability to retain fluids properly. It also helps transport important substances like hormones and medications. Low albumin can signal underlying conditions that need attention, such as chronic kidney disease or liver dysfunction.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet (especially protein intake), kidney or liver disease, chronic infections, or certain medications. Stress, pregnancy, or rapid weight changes may also impact results.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors may order albumin tests to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or severe infections. It’s also used in monitoring treatment progress for conditions affecting fluid balance.

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, and a small amount of blood will be drawn. The process usually takes just a few minutes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Albumin Levels Provide Insight into Overall Health Status

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my albumin test results back?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can diet affect my albumin test results?
Yes, diet—especially protein intake—can influence albumin levels. Eating a balanced diet with adequate protein may help maintain stable results, but your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
What if my albumin level is low?
If your albumin level is low, your doctor may recommend further testing or adjustments to your treatment plan. This could include dietary changes, monitoring kidney or liver function, or addressing malnutrition.
  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