|Fasting or Non-fasting||Non-fasting|
|Turnaround Time for Results|
A serum albumin test measures the amount of albumin in the blood. Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and is the most abundant protein in the serum.The blood concentration of albumin is a reflection of liver function and nutritional status. The serum albumin test is usually done to diagnose liver or kidney damage or the body’s ability to absorb protein.
Albumin test is a simple blood test collected via venipuncture. The results are reported as grams per deciliter (g/dL). Normal blood albumin levels range from 3.4 to 5.4 g/dL.
Lower than normal blood albumin levels may be due to:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- A condition that causes a poor absorption of nutrients, such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
Higher than normal blood albumin levels may be due to:
- High protein diet
How do I prepare for the test?
No, you do not need to fast for this test. However, if you are concurrently having another test done that requires fasting, you need to fast for that test as indicated.
What are normal levels?
Normal blood albumin levels range from 3.4 to 5.4 g/dL (or 34 to 54 g/L). The normal values can vary depending on the laboratory. The exact range will be indicated on your report.
What might abnormality indicate?
Higher than normal blood albumin levels can indicate liver or kidney disease or a condition that impacts absorption of nutrients. Lower than normal values can indicate dehydration or high protein diet. Certain medications may increase albumin levels, such as androgens, anabolic steroids, insulin and growth hormone.
Why do I need it?
If you suspect you might suffer from liver or kidney disease, or that your body is not absorbing enough protein, you may consider having the blood albumin test.
What type of doctor should I see if results are abnormal?
See your primary health care provider who may refer you to a specialist, such as an endocrinologist or nephrologist.