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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin

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

Albumin is a protein found in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function. Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps regulate fluid balance and immune health; low levels may signal underlying health concerns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3156-7
Short code
Specimen vol Amn
Synonyms
Specimen vol Amn
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may request an albumin test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or certain infections. It can also help assess how well your body is retaining fluids or responding to treatments like protein supplements.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, or if plasma is used, a small tube may be inserted into your arm to collect blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a concentration (e.g., grams per deciliter). Low albumin levels may indicate poor nutrition, organ dysfunction, or fluid loss, while very high levels are less common but could signal dehydration or certain medical conditions.

Common Conditions Monitored

Albumin levels are often checked in people with chronic kidney disease, liver disease, severe infections, or those recovering from surgery. It can also be used to evaluate protein loss in conditions like nephrotic syndrome.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get my albumin test results?
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet is required. You can eat and drink normally before the blood draw, unless your doctor instructed otherwise.
What if my albumin level is too low?
If your albumin level is low, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, supplements, or further tests to identify the cause. Treatment depends on the underlying condition, such as improving nutrition or managing kidney or liver disease.
  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