Albumin Blood Test
An albumin blood test measures a protein made by your liver to help evaluate your general health, nutrition, and liver or kidney function.
What is an albumin blood test?
This test measures the amount of albumin in your blood. Albumin is a protein produced by your liver that prevents fluid from leaking out of blood vessels into surrounding tissues. It also transports vital substances like hormones, vitamins, and enzymes throughout the body.
What is it used for?
The test checks your general health and nutritional status. It is often included in a liver panel (liver function tests) or a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to monitor how well your liver and kidneys are functioning.
Why do I need an albumin blood test?
Your provider may order this test during a routine checkup or if you show symptoms of liver or kidney disease.
Symptoms of liver disease
- Nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite
- Fatigue and weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
- Abdominal swelling or pain
- Swelling in ankles and legs
- Dark urine or light-colored stool
- Frequent itching
Symptoms of kidney disease
- Swelling in hands, feet, or eyelids
- Dry, itchy skin or numbness
- Fatigue and sleep problems
- Changes in urination (increased, decreased, bloody, or foamy)
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Muscle cramps
- Shortness of breath
- Trouble thinking clearly
What happens during the test?
A health care professional will collect a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The procedure usually takes less than five minutes.
Preparation and Risks
No special preparation is usually required, though you may need to fast if other tests are ordered simultaneously. Inform your provider about all medications you take. Risks are minimal, consisting of minor pain or bruising at the puncture site.
What do the results mean?
An albumin test is rarely used alone for diagnosis; results are interpreted alongside other clinical data.
- Lower than normal levels: May indicate liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis, hepatitis), kidney disease, malnutrition, infection, digestive disorders (e.g., Crohn's disease), severe burns, or thyroid disease.
- Higher than normal levels: May be a sign of dehydration.
Note that certain medications (like steroids or birth control pills), pregnancy, or prolonged fasting can influence albumin levels.