Also known as: ABL (Abl)
Formal Name: Serum Albumin
Albumin is a protein made by the liver and accounts for roughly 60% of the total protein found in blood plasma. It is essential for maintaining oncotic pressure, transporting different substances, and acting as an indicator of liver and kidney health. Abnormal levels of albumin can signal various health issues, making it an important factor in clinical diagnostics.
Why Does Albumin Get Tested?
Testing albumin levels offers important insights into a person’s overall health. Abnormal levels of albumin can indicate:
- Liver Disease: Since albumin is produced by the liver, conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver failure can lead to decreased levels.
- Kidney Disease: When the kidneys are not functioning properly, albumin may leak into the urine, resulting in lower blood levels.
- Nutritional Status: Albumin is a useful marker for assessing protein-calorie malnutrition.
- Chronic Inflammatory or Infectious Conditions: Low levels of albumin are often seen in cases of chronic inflammation or serious infections.
When to Get the Test?
A healthcare provider may recommend an albumin test if you exhibit symptoms such as:
- Signs of Liver Disease: Yellowing of the skin and eyes, tiredness, sudden weight loss, or swelling in the abdomen.
- Signs of Kidney Disease: Puffiness in the legs, ankles, or under the eyes; or urine that appears foamy.
- General Symptoms: Decreased appetite, slow healing of wounds, or ongoing fatigue.
The test serum Albumin is commonly part of a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) or liver function tests (LFTs).
Sample Required for the Test
The albumin/ serum albumin test usually perform from blood sample from a vein in the arm. In some situations, urine samples might be examined, particularly when evaluating kidney function, such as through the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio.
Test Preparation Needed?
Typically, no special preparation is needed for an albumin blood test. However, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know about any medications, supplements, or health conditions that could affect the results. If the test is part of a broader panel, like a CMP, fasting might be required.
Reference Ranges in Different Units
Units Used
- g/dL (grams per deciliter): This unit is commonly used in the USA.
- g/L (grams per liter): This measurement is prevalent in Europe and other regions.
- mmol/L (millimoles per liter): This unit is used occasionally.
Normal Albumin Ranges by Age
| Age/Gender | g/dL | g/L | mmol/L |
| Adults (18+ years) Males & Females | 3.5–5.0 | 35–50 | 0.535–0.765 |
| Children (1–17 years) | 3.8–5.4 | 38–54 | 0.581–0.826 |
| Infants (0–1 year) | 3.4–4.8 | 34–48 | 0.519–0.734 |
| Neonates (0–1 month) | 2.8–4.4 | 28–44 | 0.428–0.673 |
Gender Variations:
Generally, there are no major differences in albumin reference ranges between males and females. However, factors like hormonal changes (such as those occurring during pregnancy or menopause in females) and the typically higher muscle mass in males can lead to minor variations.
Important Notes:
- Clinical Relevance:
- Low albumin levels (less than 3.5 g/dL or 35 g/L) can suggest malnutrition, liver disease, chronic inflammation, or nephrotic syndrome. High albumin levels are uncommon but may occur due to dehydration.
- Interpretation Variance:
- It’s important to always compare results with the reference ranges specific to the laboratory that conducted the test.
- Conditions Influencing Albumin Levels:
- Chronic illnesses, pregnancy, and certain medications (such as corticosteroids) can affect albumin levels.
It is important to note that these values may vary slightly between laboratories. Low or high albumin levels often warrant further investigation to pinpoint the underlying cause.
What Is Being Tested?
The albumin test assesses the amount of albumin present in the blood, which is crucial for maintaining oncotic pressure and transporting various substances, including:
- Hormones
- Enzymes
- Medications
- Electrolytes (such as calcium)
When albumin levels are low, a condition known as hypoalbuminemia may arise, indicating potential issues like:
- Liver dysfunction
- Kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome)
- Malabsorption or malnutrition
- Chronic infections or inflammation
On the other hand, high albumin levels, referred to as hyperalbuminemia, are uncommon and usually associated with dehydration or an excessive intake of protein.
Common Questions
Q: What does a low albumin level mean?
Ans. A low albumin level often indicates issues such as liver disease, kidney disease, or chronic inflammation. It can also suggest inadequate nutrition.
Q: Can dehydration affect albumin levels?
Ans. Yes, dehydration can lead to a temporary increase in albumin levels because of decreased plasma volume.
Q: Is albumin testing painful?
Ans. The albumin test is performed through a simple blood draw, which might cause slight discomfort but is usually well-tolerated.
Q: How long does it take to get the results?
Ans. Typically, you can expect results within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time.
Q: Can diet influence albumin levels?
Yes, a diet low in protein can gradually result in decreased albumin levels.
Is albumin testing painful?
Ans. The albumin test is performed through a simple blood draw, which might cause slight discomfort but is usually well-tolerated.
Q: How long does it take to get the results?
Ans. Typically, you can expect results within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time.
