Serum albumin concentration (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of albumin, a key protein in your blood that helps maintain fluid balance and supports immune function.
["Albumin helps keep fluids in your blood vessels and supports your body’s ability to fight infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10414-1
- Short code
- Trans Albumin Vol Patient
- Synonyms
- Trans Albumin Vol Patient
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 5
- Critical range
- 1.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82040
- SNOMED
- 22383007
- 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 produced by your liver and plays a vital role in transporting nutrients, maintaining blood pressure, and supporting tissue repair. Low levels may indicate liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney problems, while high levels could suggest dehydration or certain medical conditions. Your doctor may order this test to check for health issues like kidney disease, liver problems, or chronic illness.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
Common Causes of Low or High Albumin
Low albumin levels can result from conditions like liver disease, kidney failure, severe infections, or poor nutrition. High albumin levels might be due to dehydration, certain medications, or conditions that reduce fluid in body tissues. Your doctor will discuss results with you based on your overall health.
What the Results Mean
Your results will be compared to a general reference range provided by your lab. While albumin levels can give clues about health, they’re often used alongside other tests for a full picture. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Reference range
Adult: 3.5-5.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Albumin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often do I need this test?
What if my albumin level is out of range?
Can diet affect albumin levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy