Albumin
Also known as: ALB
Formal name: Albumin
The Test Sample
What is being tested?
This test measures the level of albumin in the blood. Albumin is the most abundant protein in the fluid portion of the blood, the plasma. It keeps fluid from leaking out of blood vessels; nourishes tissues; and transports hormones, vitamins, drugs, and ions like calcium throughout the body. Albumin is made in the liver and is extremely sensitive to liver damage. The concentration of albumin drops when the liver is damaged, when a person has a kidney disease that causes nephrotic syndrome, when a person is malnourished, has inflammation, or is in shock. Albumin levels can rise when a person is dehydrated. This is a relative increase that occurs as the volume of plasma decreases.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is taken by a needle from a vein.
NOTE: If undergoing medical tests makes you or someone you care for anxious, embarrassed, or even difficult to manage, you might consider reading one or more of the following articles: Coping with Test Pain, Discomfort, and Anxiety, Tips on Blood Testing, Tips to Help Children through Their Medical Tests, and Tips to Help the Elderly through Their Medical Tests.
Another article, Follow That Sample, provides a glimpse at the collection and processing of a blood sample and throat culture.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.
