Serum Albumin

Also known as Albumin Blood Test, S. Albumin

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

Overnight fasting is preferred.

Understanding Serum Albumin

What is Serum Albumin?

A Serum Albumin test is used to measure the amount of albumin protein in the body. This test helps determine your nutritional status or identify any nutritional deficiencies. It is recommended as part of routine health checkups or if a liver or kidney disease is suspected.

Proteins are the fundamental molecules for body functioning, growth, and development. They are responsible for forming the structural part of most of the body's organs and also help in making enzymes and hormones. Albumin is one of the primary proteins produced by the liver and is required for the body’s growth, development, and tissue repair.

You may need a Serum Albumin test if you experience symptoms such as fatigue, abnormal or dark-colored urination, sudden weight loss, unexplained swelling in your legs and feet, or the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Your doctor may also advise this test if you are at a higher risk of developing liver or kidney disease to help detect any associated problem at an earlier stage. Usually, overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred for an albumin test; do not eat or drink anything except water before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your overall health and formulate an overall treatment plan.

What is Serum Albumin used for?

A Serum Albumin test is done:

As part of routine health checkups.
If you have symptoms of liver or kidney disease.
To monitor treatment response for existing liver and kidney diseases.
In case of a planned surgery.
In case of sudden weight loss.
To check the nutritional status.

What does Serum Albumin measure?

A Serum Albumin test measures the level of albumin protein in your blood. Albumin is one of the major proteins found in your body; about 60% of the total protein is made up of albumin, which is produced by the liver. It helps carry small molecules, such as hormones, vitamins, minerals, and medicines, throughout the body. It also serves as a source of amino acids for tissue metabolism. Albumin helps stop the fluid from leaking out of the blood vessels. When the albumin level is insufficient, the fluid can leak out of your blood vessels and build up in your lungs, belly, or other parts of your body.

Interpreting Serum Albumin results

Interpretations

Decreased albumin levels can be seen in low protein diet, liver disease, weight loss surgery, celiac disease, and Crohn’s disease.
Increased albumin levels may be seen in a high protein diet, dehydration, or blood loss.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Serum Albumin

Frequently Asked Questions about Serum Albumin

Q. What does a Serum Albumin test indicate?

A Serum Albumin test is used to identify liver and kidney diseases. This test is also used to check if your body is absorbing enough proteins.

Q. Is fasting required before a Serum Albumin test?

Yes, usually overnight fasting is preferred before an albumin test. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything except water before the test.

Q. Is there any risk associated with an albumin test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. However, some people may feel a slight sting when a needle is pricked to collect the blood sample and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Rarely, some people may also experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times a day for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. What are the natural sources to increase albumin?

You must consult your doctor if your test results show abnormal albumin levels. However, to increase your albumin level naturally, you should add protein-rich foods, such as eggs, milk, yogurt, almonds, cottage cheese, pulses, and peanuts, to your diet.