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Serum Albumin Concentration (Mass Concentration)

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

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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19759-0
Short code
Swine Serum Alb IgE Qn
Synonyms
Swine Serum Alb IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 is a key protein that helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports your immune system. Low levels may suggest problems like kidney disease, liver issues, or poor nutrition, while high levels might indicate dehydration or certain medical conditions.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence albumin levels, including diet, kidney or liver disease, infections, chronic illnesses, or certain medications. Stress, pregnancy, or rapid weight changes may also play a role.

How Is This Test Done?

A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where albumin concentration is measured using a specialized method, often an automated analyzer.

What Do Results Mean?

Results are typically reported as a mass concentration (e.g., grams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, very low levels may signal underlying health concerns that need further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Albumin levels serve as an important marker for assessing protein status, kidney function, and overall body protein synthesis. Chronic low albumin can be linked to conditions like malnutrition, cirrhosis, or nephrotic syndrome, while acute changes may reflect stress responses or fluid shifts.

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin levels can result from conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, malnutrition, severe infections, or burns. Certain medications or rapid weight loss may also contribute.
What causes high albumin levels?
High albumin levels are less common but may occur with dehydration, severe infections, or certain genetic conditions. Rarely, it can be a side effect of some medications.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor may order albumin testing periodically if you have conditions like kidney disease, liver disease, or malnutrition. Follow-up may depend on your overall health and symptoms.
  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