Understanding the Albumin Blood Test: A Comprehensive Guide

☝️Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance and oncotic pressure in the bloodstream.

✨Albumin also plays a crucial role in transporting hormones, vitamins, and enzymes throughout the body.

❓Low albumin levels may indicate liver or kidney disease, while high levels can be a sign of dehydration.

🔬To interpret the albumin test results, it's important to compare them to the normal lab reference range of 3.5 to 5.5 grams per deciliter.

🩺Additional tests, such as liver function tests or urine albumin creatinine ratio, may be ordered to determine the underlying cause of abnormal albumin levels.

What is albumin?

—Albumin is a protein produced by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance in the bloodstream and carries other substances throughout the body.

Why is the albumin blood test used?

—The albumin blood test is used to assess liver and kidney function and to diagnose and monitor certain medical conditions.

What can low albumin levels indicate?

—Low albumin levels may indicate liver or kidney disease, severe inflammation, shock, or conditions affecting protein absorption and digestion.

What can high albumin levels indicate?

—High albumin levels are commonly seen in dehydrated patients.

What other tests may be ordered alongside the albumin blood test?

—Additional tests, such as liver function tests or urine albumin creatinine ratio, may be ordered to determine the underlying cause of abnormal albumin levels.

00:04In this video, we explore the albumin blood test, covering what albumin is, why the test is used, and how to interpret the results.

00:24Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance and carries substances throughout the body.

01:30The albumin blood test is typically requested when a patient displays signs of liver or kidney disease.

01:52Low albumin levels may indicate liver or kidney disease, while high levels can be a sign of dehydration.

03:05Additional tests may be needed to determine the exact cause of abnormal albumin levels.