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Serum or plasma mass concentration of albumin

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

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function. Your test result measures how much albumin is present in your blood.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels help doctors check for kidney or liver problems and overall protein health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19098-3
Short code
RBC Amn Ql
Synonyms
RBC Amn Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.2
Ref high
5.9
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order albumin tests to monitor conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. It can also help track how well treatments are working for these conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, or a tube may be placed in your vein for a blood draw. If you’re having a urine test, you’ll collect a sample in a clean container.

What the Results Mean

Low albumin levels may indicate problems like kidney disease, liver disease, or severe infections. High levels might suggest dehydration or certain genetic conditions. Your doctor will discuss your specific results with you.

Common Conditions Linked to Albumin Levels

Abnormally low albumin can be linked to chronic kidney disease, cirrhosis, or malnutrition. High levels can sometimes be seen in dehydration or certain genetic disorders. Your doctor will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide care.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: fluid

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my albumin test results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready or provide instructions on how to access them.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet or fasting is required for this test. However, if you’re having a urine albumin test (not this one), you may need to follow specific instructions, like avoiding certain foods or drinks for 24 hours.
What does it mean if my albumin level is in the normal range?
A normal range means your blood contains typical amounts of albumin, which suggests your kidneys, liver, and overall protein balance are functioning reasonably well. However, your doctor may still recommend follow-up tests or monitoring depending on your health 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy