ALBUMIN, BODY FLUID

What this test checks

Measures albumin in fluid that a doctor has drained from the chest, abdomen, or another body cavity. Helps distinguish whether the fluid is from heart failure, liver disease, infection, or cancer.

Why do people get this test?

Doctors order this when they need to know the cause of a fluid build-up.

When you should consider this test

• Fluid drained from chest or abdomen
• Investigation of ascites or pleural effusion
• Doctor specifically requested this test

How to prepare

Performed on a fluid sample your doctor has already collected.