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Serum/plasma mass 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 check your albumin level to assess how well your kidneys are working or to monitor conditions like liver disease or malnutrition.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports immune health; low levels may signal kidney or liver issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
76057-9
Short code
ST Amp L-aVL
Synonyms
ST Amp L-aVL
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 This Test Done?

Doctors order albumin tests to evaluate kidney function, detect liver disease, or check for malnutrition. It may also be used in monitoring chronic conditions like heart failure or kidney disease. Sometimes, it’s part of a broader blood panel to assess overall health.

What Does a Low or High Albumin Level Mean?

Low albumin levels might indicate problems like kidney disease, liver failure, or severe infections. High levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions, but they’re less common. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

How Is This Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. The test measures the amount of albumin protein in your blood using a specialized laboratory method.

What Are Common Conditions Monitored With Albumin?

Albumin levels are often checked in people with kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition, or those recovering from surgery. It can also help track how well certain treatments are working over time.

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 kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, severe infections, or conditions that cause excessive protein loss (like burns or certain cancers). Chronic conditions like heart failure or diabetes may also affect albumin levels.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but may occur with dehydration, certain genetic conditions, or in people who have lost fluid from the body (like through vomiting or diarrhea). Your doctor will review your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader blood panel. Avoid strenuous activity or certain medications that could affect results. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
  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