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Serum or Plasma Albumin by Bromocresol Green Turbidimetric Method

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

This test measures the amount of albumin, a key protein in your blood, which helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels can indicate overall protein status and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40502-7
Short code
SLEV Ab Titr Ser CF
Synonyms
SLEV Ab Titr Ser CF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
comp-fix
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 Measures

Albumin is one of the most abundant proteins in your blood. It plays a critical role in transporting nutrients, hormones, and medications, as well as helping to regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in your body. Low levels may suggest conditions like malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to assess your nutritional health, check for liver or kidney disease, evaluate fluid balance, or monitor treatment responses in conditions like kidney failure or severe infections.

Common Uses

Albumin testing is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor conditions such as cirrhosis, severe burns, chronic kidney disease, or malnutrition.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this depends on your healthcare provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin (BCG)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Check with your healthcare provider for specific instructions, but generally, fasting for 8–12 hours before the test is common for some blood tests. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals.
What do low or high albumin levels mean?
Low albumin may indicate poor nutrition, liver disease, or kidney problems, while very high levels are less common and may suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
  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