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

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81423-6
Short code
AE Stn Mar
Synonyms
AE Stn Mar
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
acetate-esterase-stain
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, liver disease, kidney disease, or severe infections. It can also help evaluate how well your body is retaining fluids or responding to treatments like dialysis.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re concerned about needles, let your healthcare provider know in advance.

What the Test Results Mean

Low albumin levels may indicate poor nutrition, liver or kidney disease, or conditions that cause fluid to leak from blood vessels. High levels are less common but could suggest dehydration or certain genetic disorders.

Common Conditions Monitored

Albumin is often checked alongside other blood tests to diagnose or track conditions like cirrhosis, kidney failure, or chronic infections. It’s also used in some medical procedures to assess fluid balance.

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 can result from poor diet (low protein intake), liver disease (where albumin is made), kidney disease (where albumin is lost in urine), or severe infections or burns that deplete protein reserves.
How is albumin tested?
Albumin is measured in a blood sample using standard laboratory techniques, often as part of a routine chemistry panel. The test checks the total protein concentration in your serum or plasma.
Can diet affect albumin test results?
Yes, high-protein diets or specific supplements may influence albumin levels, but results are typically interpreted alongside other clinical factors rather than relying solely on diet.
  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