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Serum or plasma concentration of albumin (total protein component)

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 check your albumin level to assess how well your body is retaining fluids or to monitor conditions like kidney disease or liver problems.

Quick summary

["Albumin helps regulate fluid balance and supports immune health; low levels may signal kidney, liver, or malnutrition issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5384-3
Short code
TSH Ab Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
TSH Ab Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.4
Ref high
4
Critical range
0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84443
SNOMED
301343003
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 where they need to be in your body. It also helps transport other substances, like hormones and medications, and supports your immune system. Low albumin levels can sometimes indicate problems with your kidneys, liver, or how well your body is absorbing nutrients from food.

What Can Affect Albumin Levels?

Several factors can influence your albumin level, including chronic kidney disease, liver disease, malnutrition (especially from poor protein intake), severe infections, burns, or certain medications. Stress, pregnancy, and some autoimmune conditions may also play a role.

Common Conditions Monitored with Albumin

Doctors often check albumin levels to monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease, cirrhosis (liver disease), malnutrition, or severe infections. It can also help assess how well your body is retaining fluids after surgery or trauma.

What to Expect During the Test

This test is usually done by drawing blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted, but it only takes a few minutes. No special preparation is needed, though you might be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your doctor directs it.

Reference range

Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A

Specimen: serum

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Albumin Levels Can Signal Underlying Health Issues

Short name

Albumin Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes low albumin levels?
Low albumin levels can result from conditions that affect your kidneys or liver (like cirrhosis), malnutrition, chronic infections, or severe burns. Certain medications or rapid weight loss may also contribute. High albumin levels are less common but can occur in dehydration or certain genetic conditions.
How does albumin relate to kidney or liver function?
Albumin is produced in the liver and filtered by the kidneys. Low levels often signal problems with these organs, such as reduced protein synthesis in the liver or impaired filtration in the kidneys. Your doctor may use albumin as part of a broader evaluation for these conditions.
Can diet affect albumin levels?
Yes, diet plays a role. Eating enough protein (including albumin-producing foods like lean meats, eggs, and dairy) is important. Malnutrition or very low-protein diets can lower albumin levels. Your doctor may recommend dietary adjustments if 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