Albumin test
Quick answer: An albumin test measures albumin, the main protein made by your liver, in blood or in fluid from the body. In blood it helps check liver function, kidney protein loss and nutrition; in fluid from the abdomen or chest it helps find the cause of fluid build-up.
- SampleBlood or fluid
- TakesAbout 5 minutes for blood; 15–30 minutes for a fluid procedure
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1For blood, a needle draws a sample from a vein in your arm
- 2For fluid, your doctor collects it from the abdomen or chest with a needle
- 3A blood sample is often taken at the same time to compare
- 4The lab measures albumin in each sample
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low blood level can be seen with liver disease, kidney protein loss, poor nutrition or long illness. A high blood level is usually due to dehydration; in fluid, comparing albumin with blood helps tell the cause of fluid build-up.
Who usually has this test
People having liver or kidney checks, people with swelling or fluid in the abdomen or chest, and people with poor nutrition.
Risks and aftercare
A blood test may cause slight bruising; a fluid procedure can cause soreness, and your doctor will explain its risks.
Names and options
Also called: serum albumin, fluid albumin
Options
- Blood (serum)
- Body fluid
Listed by the hospital as
- ALBUMIN, SERUM
- ALBUMIN, FLUID
Questions about this test
What does low albumin mean?
Low albumin can mean the liver is not making enough, the kidneys are losing it, or you are not getting enough protein. It can also fall during any serious illness or inflammation.
Why is albumin measured in both blood and abdominal fluid?
Comparing the two gives a number called the albumin gradient. It helps doctors tell whether fluid is mainly from liver-related pressure or from other causes such as infection or cancer.
Can eating more protein raise my albumin quickly?
Not quickly. Albumin changes over weeks, and a low level is often due to illness rather than diet alone. Your doctor will look for the cause.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.