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Serum or 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 the immune system. Your doctor may order this test to check for conditions like malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin levels help assess overall protein status and organ function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60971-9
Short code
ST Amp L-MCL6
Synonyms
ST Amp L-MCL6
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 Albumin Levels Matter

Albumin plays a key role in keeping fluids in your blood vessels and transporting nutrients and waste products. Low levels can signal serious health issues, such as severe malnutrition, kidney disease, or liver damage. High levels may sometimes indicate dehydration or certain genetic conditions.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet, chronic diseases like kidney or liver disease, infections, and certain medications. Stress, pregnancy, or rapid weight changes can also temporarily affect results.

How Is This Test Done?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where albumin is measured using a specialized test that detects its concentration in the blood.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. Low albumin levels may prompt further testing for underlying conditions, while very high levels may need investigation for possible causes like dehydration or overproduction.

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 levels can result from conditions like chronic kidney disease, liver cirrhosis, severe malnutrition, or prolonged infections. Certain medications or rapid weight loss can also contribute.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but may occur with dehydration, certain genetic disorders, or conditions that cause excessive protein production in the body. Always discuss any unusual results with your healthcare provider.
Can diet affect albumin test results?
Yes, diet plays a role. A protein-rich diet supports normal albumin production, while poor nutrition can lower levels. Avoiding alcohol and managing chronic conditions like kidney disease can help maintain stable results.
  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