Albumin Test
675 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
None
Purpose
The Albumin Blood Test measures the amount of albumin, a vital protein produced by the liver, in your blood. The protein helps maintain oncotic pressure (the force that keeps fluid in your blood vessels) and plays a crucial role in transporting hormones, vitamins, and drugs throughout the body.
This test is essential for evaluating your overall nutritional status, liver and kidney function, and the presence of conditions such as proteinuria or chronic illness.
The test can be combined with Liver Function Tests (LFTs), Renal Function Tests, Total Protein Test, Urinalysis, 24-hour Urine Protein Test, and Prealbumin Test.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation is required before the test.
Samples
1 mL with a minimum volume of 0.7 mL of Serum or plasma collected in a Gel-barrier tube, red-top tube, or green-top tube (lithium heparin). Avoid using EDTA, oxalate, or citrate plasma. Serum or plasma should be separated from cells within 45 minutes of sample collection. Preferred storage is at room temperature.
Reference Range
It is dependent on the age and sex of an individual
Results Turnaround
Within one day of sample receipt
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
Abnormal albumin levels can indicate various health conditions, depending on whether the levels are high or low.
Low Levels (Hypoalbuminemia):
May indicate:
- Chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis or hepatitis)
- Kidney disease (e.g., nephrotic syndrome or glomerulonephritis)
- Malnutrition or malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease)
- Chronic infections or inflammatory conditions
- Heart failure
High Albumin Levels (Hyperalbuminemia):
Often results from:
- Dehydration
- High-protein diet or supplements (rarely clinically significant on their own)
Because albumin levels reflect your body’s overall protein status and organ function, abnormal results usually prompt further investigation using other tests like liver panel, kidney function panel, or urine protein analysis.
For more on Albumin Testing, read this study.