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Serum/plasma mass concentration of albumin

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

Albumin is a protein produced by your liver that helps maintain fluid balance in your body and supports immune function. Low levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps keep fluids where they need to be and supports your immune system."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60961-0
Short code
ST Amp L-AS
Synonyms
ST Amp L-AS
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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 Is Albumin Tested?

Doctors may order an albumin test to check for conditions like liver disease (such as cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, or infections. It can also help monitor how well treatments are working for certain conditions.

What Does the Test Involve?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the plasma or serum, where albumin is measured using a specialized lab test.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if your doctor specifies it. Wear comfortable clothing with an easy armhole for the blood draw.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll sit comfortably while a healthcare provider inserts a small needle into your vein. A small amount of blood is collected into a vial or tube. The process is quick and usually painless, though you might feel a brief pinch.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin can result from liver disease (like cirrhosis), kidney disease, malnutrition, severe infections, burns, or certain medications. It may also occur if your body is losing protein through wounds or excessive vomiting/diarrhea.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but can occur in dehydration, severe inflammation, or conditions that increase protein production in the liver. Rarely, it may be genetic or due to certain medications.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have chronic liver, kidney, or heart disease, or if you’re undergoing treatment for these conditions.
  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