Albumin
A screening test to assess liver dysfunction or kidney disease. It is also suitable for assessing nutritional status (especially in hospitalised patients).
What is the need for a study?
A screening test to assess liver dysfunction or kidney disease. It is also suitable for assessing nutritional status (especially in hospitalised patients).
When should I be tested?
The test is carried out in cases of suspected liver impairment, kidney disease, or in people with significant changes in body weight, as well as before elective surgery.
What sample is needed for the test?
Blood is drawn from a vein in the arm.
How to prepare for the survey?
No need.
What do my results mean?
High albumin levels are a sign of dehydration, but the test is not usually performed to detect or monitor dehydration. Low albumin levels are present in liver disease. Other laboratory tests reflecting liver function, such as liver enzyme tests, are ordered to clarify the diagnosis. Low albumin levels may reflect kidney disease, where albumin is lost in the urine. In this case, urine albumin and total protein levels should be tested. Low albumin levels can also be a sign of inflammation, malnutrition or shock. Low levels of albumin in the blood will occur when the body is unable to digest and absorb the protein properly (Crohn’s disease or coeliac disease), or when high levels are excreted through the intestines.
Related studies
Metabolites. Liver function tests. Albumin in urine. Prealbumin.
Related conditions/diseases.
Liver disease. Kidney disease.
You can consult our family doctors.