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Serum or Plasma Albumin Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
76053-8
Short code
ST Amp L-I
Synonyms
ST Amp L-I
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

What Albumin Does in Your Body

Albumin plays a key role in transporting nutrients, hormones, and medications throughout your body. It also helps maintain the right balance of fluids between your blood vessels and tissues. Low levels may suggest problems like kidney disease, liver issues, or malnutrition.

Why It’s Tested

Doctors may order albumin tests to check for kidney function, liver health, or signs of malnutrition. It can also help monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease or severe infections.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum (if drawn without an anticoagulant) or plasma (if drawn with an anticoagulant). This sample is sent to a lab for testing.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid heavy meals 2 hours before the test. If you’re on certain medications or have a condition like kidney disease, let your doctor know.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin

Frequently asked questions

What might cause low albumin levels?
Low albumin can result from conditions like liver disease, kidney disease, severe infections, or malnutrition. Very low levels may lead to swelling (edema), fatigue, or an increased risk of infections.
What might cause high albumin levels?
High albumin is less common but can occur in dehydration, severe burns, or certain types of kidney disease. It’s usually not harmful unless it’s part of a broader health concern.
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 kidney disease, liver disease, or other long-term health issues.
  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