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Serum or Plasma Albumin Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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 levels help identify potential health risks and guide treatment plans."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10124-6
Short code
ST wave MD L-V1
Synonyms
ST wave MD L-V1
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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order albumin tests to diagnose or monitor conditions such as malnutrition, kidney disease, liver disease, or chronic inflammation. It can also be checked after surgery or trauma to ensure your body is healing properly.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast before the test if it’s part of a larger blood draw for other tests. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort but no lasting effects.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Low albumin levels may indicate poor nutrition, organ dysfunction, or fluid loss, while very high levels are less common and may signal conditions like severe dehydration or certain blood disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status. If you have a chronic condition like kidney or liver disease, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Otherwise, it’s often done as needed for specific concerns.
What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin can result from poor nutrition (especially protein deficiency), kidney disease, liver disease, severe infections, burns, or conditions causing excessive fluid loss (e.g., diarrhea or vomiting).
What happens if my albumin level is low?
If your albumin is low, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, treatment for the underlying condition, or monitoring for complications like swelling (edema) or poor wound healing. Follow-up tests may also be needed.
  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